Sonny and Alicia Aplin, runners-up on the 2025 season of the Australian renovation reality show The Block, have revealed that they have spent their entire $120,000 prize money on renovating their family home. The couple used the windfall to overhaul bathrooms and interiors of their five-bedroom house in Bonogin, Queensland, which they purchased four years prior for $1.24 million.
The renovated home, featuring valley views, a pool, sauna, ice bath, and gym equipment, is now listed for sale with offers expected over $1.795 million. Alicia Aplin described the investment as a "blessing," stating, "We wouldn't have been able to renovate this house without that money, because honestly, that's where all of it has gone."
The couple is now eyeing an off-market property for their next renovation project. They have also expressed strong support for a proposed spin-off of The Block, tentatively titled "The Block: Homes for Australia." This concept would shift the show's focus from luxury trophy homes to affordable housing for first-home buyers and families struggling to enter the property market.
Proponents of the idea, like bRight Agent co-founder Aaron Scott, believe the show's format is well-suited to address Australia's housing crisis. The proposed spin-off would emphasize practical design, durable materials, and budget-conscious furnishings. Sonny Aplin indicated that he and his wife would be eager to participate in such a venture. "If it was something they went along and did, we'd put our hands up straight away," he said.
However, Sonny Aplin also raised concerns about the ongoing shortage of skilled tradespeople in Australia, identifying it as a significant obstacle to building affordable housing. He suggested that increased incentives for young people to enter trades and greater support for businesses employing apprentices are necessary to address this issue over the next decade.
