By OLIVIA DAY FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Published: 22:12 GMT, 25 March 2025 | Updated: 22:24 GMT, 25 March 2025

One of Australia’s best known restaurateurs has resigned just days after untested sexual assault claims were levelled against his son. 

Maurice Terzini, who founded the renowned Bondi Icebergs restaurant in Sydney in 2002, said on Sunday that he would continue to support his son Sylvester Terzini, 32,  despite nine women coming forward with sexual misconduct claims. 

But it was announced in a statement from the restaurant group on Wednesday that Mr Terzini would be stepping down as director.  

‘Maurice Terzini has agreed to resign as a director of the Icebergs Dining room and Bar business, and has stood down from any involvement in the business as we conduct an independent review of the issues raised in the SMH reports,’ a spokesman for Icebergs group said in a statement.

‘That review is underway.’

Maurice and Sylvester Terzini have both denied the accusations that were first reported by the Sydney Morning Herald. 

Mr Terzini spoke about the impact the allegations had on him, and his family, in his statement on Sunday. 

‘Allegations that have been made about one of my family members are devastating claims that have no place in our venues, industry or society,’ Mr Terzini, 60, said. 

Maurice Terzini (right) is pictured with his son Sylvester Terzini

Maurice Terzini (right) is pictured with his son Sylvester Terzini 

‘There are private health matters concerning one of my family members, where professional counsel has been sought.

‘As a father, my priority has always been my children.

‘In this storm, my mother reminded me that sometimes as parents we act with the best intentions, but sometimes we are challenged.

‘All parents face times of family uncertainty.’

Mr Terzini said that given his profile in the hospitality industry, he had become collateral damage.

‘The allegations are not ones against me directly yet the inferences have been hurtful and damaging to my reputation.

‘The spotlight on me, and that which comes from running one of the most recognised restaurants in the world, carries with it an obligation to ensure that I communicate truthfully with my much-loved industry and the community.’

Mr Terzini also denied claims made in the Sydney Morning Herald that he knew about the complaints made against his son, who has worked in several of his restaurants.

‘On a personal level, as a father and an employer, I have for decades done my best to provide genuine care and opportunities to all of those around me and within my businesses,’ he said.

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Bombshell update after son of Icebergs owner was hit with sexual assault allegations by nine women

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