Former real estate agent Dean Norburn prosecuted for fraud

NSW Fair Trading has prosecuted former real estate agent Dean Norburn for dishonestly obtaining a financial advantage of $305,053.13 by deception while managing a property in Elizabeth Bay.

Mr Norburn was found to have taken rental income owed to the property owner from the trust account he controlled, using those funds for personal expenses over an extended period.

At Parramatta Local Court on 27 February 2026, Mr Norburn was convicted of one offence under section 192E of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW). The Court made the following Orders:

• 18-month Intensive Corrections Order,
• 300 hours of community service,
• An order to pay $100,000 compensation to the Property Services Compensation Fund,
• An order to pay $500 in professional costs.

The Court emphasised the seriousness of the offending, noting the breach of trust, sustained period of deception, and the need for both general and specific deterrence within the real estate sector.

Mr Norburn may appeal his sentence within 28 days.

The Property Services Compensation Fund had already compensated the impacted property owner $376,558, covering the substantiated loss, interest and legal costs, ensuring the victim was not left out of pocket while the prosecution proceeded.

NSW Fair Trading will continue to take action against misconduct to protect consumers and uphold integrity in the property industry.