Kim Sarkin, a data and AI governance specialist originally from South Africa who arrived in Australia from New Zealand over 18 months ago, has defaulted on the rent at seven multimillion-dollar properties in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
Landlords have taken legal action through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) to recoup over $100,000 in unpaid rent. Allegations include fake references and doctored payment receipts.
Key Events
- Sarkin and his family rented seven luxury homes in suburbs including Bondi, Vaucluse, Bronte, Rose Bay, Queens Park, and Bondi Beach.
- Rent arrears range from $16,000 to $23,400 per property.
- Landlords received payment receipts that did not result in actual payments.
- Eviction orders were obtained in several cases, with Sarkin often vacating before the sheriff arrived.
Background
- Shortly before moving to Australia, Sarkin's New Zealand business consultancy DataXchange was placed into liquidation by the Auckland High Court, owing nearly NZ$1 million in unpaid taxes.
- Sarkin declared himself bankrupt in New Zealand in December 2025.
- His former business partner Alex Bagley reports that Sarkin managed the company's finances and that the tax debt came as a surprise.
- Sarkin's former New Zealand landlord Tony Wallace describes him as a "professional ratbag" and says he still owes about NZ$8,000 in unpaid rent.
Statements
- Sarkin acknowledged the NCAT payment orders and stated he plans to repay the debts once financially stable, adding there was no intent to harm the landlords.
- Sarkin's lawyer denied allegations of doctored receipts, stating Sarkin is not living a high life but doing the best for his family under difficult circumstances.
- Landlords described the situation as causing significant financial impact and preventing re-letting of properties.
Current Status
- Sarkin is now using Airbnb accommodations instead of renting.
- He is consulting as a lead data adviser for TrustWorks 360 and has relaunched his Lynx Advisory in Australia.