This kind of think happens in England a lot, thats where the law comes from

That's a pretty good idea.
Squatter's squatter's rights.

 

Could this be an opportunity for the first PropertyChat communal house?

There must be some locksmiths lurking here. There must be some lawyers lurking here. There must even be some bankers lurking here. Some might even be in favour of crowdfunding the outstanding council rates.

And, of course, when the original owner shows up, a ceremonial handover could be in order as a thank you for some rent free real estate for Sim's servers.

And members who appreciate low cost accommodation in the centre of Sydney, at any time of the year (and especially when Vivid Sydney is on...)

Or not.

 

Even the Inner West would do... I suppose.

 

I dont know any squatters there but I suppose it's possible...

 

Redfern banker squatter discussed on RE Talk-
Getting a million dollar property for a song – George Vlahakis | Real Estate Talk | Your Trusted Voice For Property Investing. Anywhere, Anytime.

Still another 3-4 years to go before he can put the claim in.

 

Annnnd he’s out. Poor fella.

Guide price for the uninhabitable site is $950k

‘It presents as the ultimate blank canvas’

 

Many years wasted. Unless he writes a book and makes some money from selling it.

 

link to the case please? i thought he was still lawfully living there

 

Well, the house is on the market and he is not the seller, so...

544 Elizabeth Street Redfern NSW 2016 - House for Sale #127020598 - realestate.com.au

I am not sure there is a published case and I am not bothered to look further than this:

"Mr Knapp elected to take legal action against Mr James, however the Supreme Court of NSW formally removed the squatter as a defendant in the proceedings after the court heard that the property had been vacated."​

Squatter abandons claim on $1 million Redfern terrace

What would you pay for Redfern’s ‘unlimited potential’? - realestate.com.au

I can't find anything on the Supreme Court website.