The Australian property world and Sydney's Jewish community are in mourning following the sudden death of Stanley Roth AM, the influential developer behind the city's famous 'Toaster' building. The 72-year-old former Rich Lister suffered a fatal stroke on Sunday while being taken to hospital, just hours after returning from a holiday in Hawaii.
From Law to a Property Empire
Born in Sydney in 1953 to Jewish parents who had fled Europe a decade earlier, Stanley Roth began his professional life as a lawyer. He became a partner at the firm Blake Dawson Waldron before making a pivotal career change in 1992. He left the legal profession to join his brother, John, in running Henroth Investments, the billion-dollar property empire founded by their father, Henry, a Holocaust survivor.
The brothers quickly became fixtures on the Australian Financial Review's Rich 200 list, boasting a combined wealth of $165 million by the year 2000. Their property portfolio was significant and sometimes controversial. Most notably, Stanley Roth developed the Bennelong Apartments at Circular Quay, better known as 'The Toaster', which stands adjacent to the Sydney Opera House and was once home to broadcaster Alan Jones.
A Legacy of Development and Philanthropy
Recent projects included a partnership with Woolworths to redevelop Chullora Marketplace, though planning approvals faced challenges. That shopping centre was later acquired by Charter Hall for $145 million earlier this year. At the time of his death, Mr Roth was progressing plans for Yarranabee Ventures, a luxury residential complex in the affluent suburb of Darling Point.
Following their father's death in 2000, Stanley and John Roth continued his charitable work through the Henry R Roth Charitable Foundation. Stanley Roth's extensive service to business, charity, and the community, particularly through the United Israel Appeal of Australia, led to his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2008.
Heartfelt Tributes from Community Leaders
News of his passing prompted an outpouring of grief from prominent figures. Jeremy Leibler, President of the Zionist Federation of Australia, described Roth as a "rare character" who lived "three full lives at once." He praised him as a deeply principled mentor and friend, stating, "He could be tough when the moment demanded it, but he was always soft-hearted underneath."
Central Synagogue Chief Rabbi Levi Wolff highlighted Roth's dual nature: "He was like a lion in his defence of the state of Israel... At the same time, Stanley was a man of deep heart and humanity. He was never afraid to show his emotions."
As a valued member of the Combat Antisemitism Movement Advisory Board, Roth was recognised for dedicating his life to strengthening Jewish life in Australia and supporting Israel. The board stated his "wisdom, integrity, and quiet determination will be deeply missed." Tributes extended beyond the Jewish community, with former Olympian and senator Nova Peris remembering him as "a true gentleman with a generous heart."
Stanley Roth is survived by his wife Charmaine, his son Michael, daughters Danielle and Ilana, and seven grandchildren. His brother, John, is married to Jillian Segal, Australia's special envoy to combat antisemitism.
