Former Australian Community Media (ACM) chairman Antony Catalano has had his family violence case adjourned until 16 October 2026, following a brief hearing in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court.
Catalano, 59, appeared before the court via video link while the alleged victim, his wife Stefanie Catalano, also participated remotely. During the hearing, defence lawyer Tony Hargreaves requested additional time before the matter proceeds further, citing reasons that were not disclosed in open court. Magistrate Vincenzo Caltabiano granted the application while noting that criminal matters should generally be dealt with as quickly as possible. Catalano's bail was extended until the next hearing.
The case relates to allegations arising from an incident on 13 March 2026 at the couple's apartment in St Kilda, Melbourne. Prosecutors allege Catalano assaulted his wife, made threats to kill her and falsely imprisoned her during the incident. He faces multiple criminal charges, including assault, threats to kill and false imprisonment. Catalano has not entered a plea, and the allegations have not been proven in court.
Following his arrest earlier this year, Catalano stepped away from his leadership roles at Australian Community Media and later entered a rehabilitation program. In a public statement issued after the incident, he acknowledged needing professional help and apologised for the impact of his behaviour on his family, colleagues and staff.
Earlier court hearings resulted in changes to his bail conditions, allowing him to travel interstate to Byron Bay, where his wife and children are currently living. Those changes were not opposed by prosecutors or the complainant's legal representatives.
The hearing on 16 October will be a contest mention, a procedural court appearance where both prosecution and defence advise the court whether the matter is ready to proceed to trial or whether any issues remain outstanding. It does not determine guilt or innocence but helps the court manage the progress of the case.
Catalano, who previously led Australian Community Media after acquiring the regional newspaper network, remains subject to bail conditions while awaiting the next stage of the proceedings. If the matter cannot be resolved before the October hearing, it may be scheduled for a contested trial at a later date.
