‘Genuinely sorry’: ‘Oversight’ blamed for AC/DC home demolition

Developers have blamed an “oversight” on the demolition of an iconic home claiming they were never told of its cultural significance.

Developers who bulldozed the former home of AC/DC have claimed they were never informed of the property’s cultural significance, claiming the house was destroyed by accident.

The number 4 house on Burleigh Street in Sydney’s inner west was the childhood home of talented Aussie musicians Malcolm, Angus and George Young, with the two youngest brothers going on to found AC/DC at the home in 1973.

Despite being listed on the National Trust List of Historic Homes in 2013, the property was quietly bulldozed in recent weeks after being purchased by developers in February 2023 for $5.8 million.

The AC/DC house was demolished in Burwood. Picture: Supplied

In a statement to the media, Burwood Square Pty Ltd general manager Leon Kmita said they only learned of the home’s history after it was destroyed.

“We regret that the previous long-term owner did not share this vital part of the property’s background with us,” he said.

“Learning about this connection after our plans were already underway has shocked us.

“We are genuinely sorry for this oversight.”

Mr Kmita said his team was now working to salvage materials from the site to create a “special space” such as a cafe or bar where fans can “gather to celebrate the band’s enduring legacy”.

“On behalf of the team at Burwood Square, I want to convey our heartfelt regret … we now recognise how deeply this location resonates with the AC/DC community and fans worldwide,” he said.

“We feel a strong responsibility to honour AC/DC’s legacy and to make amends to all the fans who hold this band in such high regard.

“While we cannot change the past, we are dedicated to celebrating this significant part of their story.

“To the global fanbase of AC/DC, please know that we hear you, appreciate your deep admiration for this legendary band, and are devoted to making this right.”

Photos of the demolished home were posted to the AC/DC fan page. Picture: Facebook

The developers of Burwood Square also purchased 2 Burleigh Street with plans to build a $28.75 million residential site.

The Young family moved to Burwood after migrating from Scotland in 1963.

They moved into Villawood Migrant Hostel after arriving in Australia before the boys’ father managed to find work.

The family then temporarily lived in a few other homes in Burwood before moving permanently to 4 Burleigh Street in 1965.

Brothers Malcolm and Angus attended Burwood Primary School and then Ashfield Boys High School, with the uniform inspiring the band’s onstage outfit.

The uniforms were modified by their older sister Margaret – whose sewing machine had two power options: AC or DC.

The developers say they are working to salvage materials from the bulldozed site. Picture: Facebook

The mural painted at 12 Burleigh St Burwood. Picture: Burwood Council

Meanwhile, the eldest brother George co-founded rock band the Easybeats in 1964.

Both Malcolm and George died in 2017, with Angus still touring with the band at age 69.

Burwood Council said they are committed to celebrating the legacy of AC/DC’s connection to the Inner West suburb.

At 12 Burleigh Street, the council commissioned a mural dedicated to Angus and Malcolm before commissioning an AC/DC Choir Medley to honour the musicians.

Leon Kmita, the general manager of Burwood Square. Picture: LinkedIn

The three Easybeats members in front of the house with eldest sister Margaret Young in the background. Picture: Jill Molan

“Burwood Council remains committed to finding new ways to celebrate the Young family and the area’s rich musical heritage,” the council said in a statement.

It is also likely AC/DC will return to Australia for their first tour in a decade later this year.

The band have only confirmed a run of shows in America in April and May for their 2025 concert itinerary.

But their schedule is wide open for late 2025 with the rockers rumoured to return to stadiums in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth in November.

Originally published as ‘Genuinely sorry’: ‘Oversight’ blamed for AC/DC home demolition