The family of convicted rapist Tom Silvagni are preparing a desperate legal appeal while residing in a spectacular multi-million-pound rental mansion owned by a lawyer in Melbourne.
A Family Rallying in Luxury
Former Australian Rules Football great Stephen Silvagni and his ex-television presenter wife, Jo, have been tracked down to a lavish property in the suburb of Balwyn North. The home, which commands a weekly rent of £1,150 (approximately $2,200 AUD), boasts a stunning pool, marble bathrooms, and a high-end kitchen. This temporary residence is just a short distance from their former family mansion, which was sold last year after their son was charged with repeatedly raping his former friend's girlfriend at that address.
The couple moved into the rental mid-last year to remain in Melbourne and support their son throughout his lengthy trial. Sources indicate the family initially moved interstate to Queensland following the charges but return to Victoria as required for legal proceedings.
Conviction and Controversial Support
Tom Silvagni, aged 23, was found guilty of two counts of rape last week after a trial conducted under a strict reporting blackout. He was sentenced to six years in prison, with a non-parole period of three years and three months, ensuring he will spend Christmas behind bars.
The Silvagnis' unwavering support for their son has sparked significant public backlash. Outside the court following a pre-sentence hearing in early December, Stephen Silvagni, with his wife's arm around him, broke down in tears while questioning the credibility of the victim and pledging to appeal the conviction. "We all love and support our son Tom. Our son continues to maintain his innocence and we stand firmly behind him," he stated.
Jo Silvagni's behaviour has drawn particular scrutiny. She was notably absent from the courtroom as the victim delivered an emotional impact statement. When she entered just as it concluded, she allegedly glared at the young woman from a seat two metres away. Days later, after the sentencing on December 17, she was filmed pushing a female TV reporter and telling the media to "go away."
Public Backlash and Silent Stand
The family's stance has ignited fury online, with many Australians, particularly women, calling for a boycott of Chemist Warehouse, where Jo has been a long-time brand ambassador. While Jo bears no legal responsibility for her son's crimes, the family's public dismissal of the verdict and victim has not sat well with the public.
Tom's girlfriend, model Alannah Iaconis, who testified in his defence, has been seen arriving at the Balwyn North rental. When approached by the Daily Mail, Tom's brother and AFL player, Jack Silvagni, confirmed her presence but stated she would not be commenting. "The family [are] doing it hard," he said, adding, "You guys do what you got to do, but from our perspective if you guys could move on that would be great." Ms Iaconis has maintained her relationship with Tom since the accusations emerged but keeps it entirely off her social media.
As the Silvagnis rally together in their luxurious temporary home, plotting their next legal move, the court of public opinion has already reached a starkly different verdict on the family's conduct.
