Slade Westall

''Neighbours'' is an Australian television soap opera. It was first broadcast on 18 March 1985 and airs on streaming channel Amazon Freevee. The following is a list of characters that first appear in the show in 2024, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by the show's executive producer Jason Herbison. Veronica McLain ( Ellen Grimshaw), Alyssa Gavalas (Imogen Sage), Slade Westall (Charlie Di Stefano), Chelsea Murphy ( Viva Bianca) and Sasha McLain (Sunny S. Walia) made their debuts in January. Felix Rodwell (James Beaufort) was introduced in February. Victor Stone ( Craig Hall) and Amira Devkar (Maria Thattil) arrived in May. Logan Shembri (Matthew Becker) debuted in June. Max Ramsey (Ben Jackson) and Yasmine Sheilds ( Chrishell Stause) will arrive later in the year.

Veronica McLain

Veronica McLain, played by Ellen Grimshaw, made her first appearance on 4 January 2024. Grimshaw confirmed her casting via her Instagram account. She wrote that Veronica would be a "mysterious woman who seems more than just a little bit annoyed" by the established character Nicolette Stone ( Hannah Monson). Writers introduced Veronica during a storyline in which Nicolette is taunted by a mystery person who leaves random keys around the entrance to her home. On 28 December 2023, Iona Rowan from Digital Spy previewed a spoiler photograph showing Grimshaw and Monson in character. Her colleague Daniel Kilkelly confirmed that Veronica would arrive in Erinsborough seeking revenge against Nicolette after she is confirmed to be the culprit leaving the keys for Nicolette to find. He added that Veronica blames Nicolette for ruining her marriage to Sasha McLain (Sunny S. Walia) and his later disappearance. Kilkelly added that Veronica is "ruthless" and threatens Nicolette into helping her find Sasha. In her debut scenes it is revealed that Veronica's husband knew Nicolette's ex-girlfriend, Kiri Durant (Gemma Bird Matheson) from a church group. Nicolette suspected that Sasha was untrustworthy and seduced him to expose his true intentions to Kiri. However, Nicolette's behaviour caused the break-up of both her own and Sasha's relationships.

Veronica was revealed to be the main suspect in a storyline centric to the disappearance of Isla Tanaka-Brennan (Hana Abe-Tucker), who is Nicolette's young daughter. Isla disappears while attending a local jumble sale and her disappearance is initially unexplained. A ''Neighbours'' publicist told Sarah Ellis from ''Inside Soap'' that "there's every chance she could have snatched Isla" because she has been blackmailing Nicolette. She does not believe Veronica would kidnap a child, but Nicolette's brother Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux) convinces her to call the police. The publicist added that Nicolette "may have underestimated her opponent on this occasion."

Kilkelly revealed that Veronica would continue her revenge campaign. This time Veronica threatens Nicolette and Isla's fathers, David Tanaka ( Takaya Honda) and Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson). Veronica is included in location filmed episodes featuring an undisclosed character death. Kilkelly added that Veronica follows Nicolette, David and Aaron to a holiday home. Veronica confronts Nicolette and accuses her of holidaying with Sasha. Nicolette is then tasked with convincing Veronica otherwise again. Kilkelly branded Veronica a "new villain" and noted she "turns even nastier" as the her story progresses.

Veronica leaves a series of keys around Nicolette's home. She incorrectly presumes the keys are from Sasha and goes to a hotel room to confront him. Inside she finds and empty room with lingerie left as a gift. Nicolette begins to suspect that Sasha is following her until she witnesses Veronica waiting in a car outside her home. Nicolette confronts Veronica who tells Nicolette she wants revenge for her breaking-up her marriage. She threatens to tell Nicolette's family she has tried to seduce her church attending husband, if she does not cooperate in finding Sasha. Nicolette explains to Veronica that she ceased contact with Sasha. When Veronica spends time with Nicolette's family, she decides to apologise fully for ruining the McLain's marriage. Nicolette explains that Sasha was flirting with her girlfriend, Kiri during Bible class. Nicolette claims that Sasha flirted with her too and decided to seduce him and expose him as a liar.

When Nicolette is distracted, Veronica takes her daughter Isla and leaves her alone outside of a police station. Nicolette accuses Veronica of abducting her child, but there is insufficient evidence for police to apprehend her. Jane Harris ( Annie Jones) confronts Veronica but this causes her to become more hostile. Veronica tries to turn Isla's father, David against Nicolette. Veronica witnesses Nicolette and Sasha talking and presumes they are dating. Veronica follows Nicolette and her friends to a country side holiday resort. She breaks into their accommodation and confronts Nicolette. She convinces Veronica that she never had an affair with Sasha. Veronica is present when David is killed on the holiday trip. She later messages Nicolette offering her emotional support.

Alyssa Gavalas

Alyssa Gavalas, played by Imogen Sage, made her first appearance on 10 January 2024. Details of the character were revealed in advance spoilers issued on 4 January 2024. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Alyssa is the original owner of Haz Devkar's ( Shiv Palekar) rescue dog, Trevor. Alyssa meets Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux) walking Trevor in the park and immediately recognises her lost dog, whose name is actually Bodie. He added that Alyssa would seek contact with Haz to reconnect with her former pet. Haz is upset at the prospect of losing Trevor and seeks legal advice. Alyssa appears again on 22 January. A ''Neighbours'' publicist told Sarah Ellis from ''Inside Soap'' that Alyssa would continue to seek out Haz. They added that "Alyssa really tugs on Haz's heartstrings" as she explains what Trevor meant to her family. When Alyssa reveals the dog was a present from her dead mother and her son Max Gavalas (Jethro Cassar), Haz reconsiders and agrees to give Trevor back to the Gavalas family.

Alyssa meets Byron walking Trevor in the park and recognises him as her lost dog Bodie. She asks for Haz's details but Byron gives her his own telephone number. She contacts Byron but Haz refuses to speak to her. He later contacts Alyssa and pretends he does not have Trevor. Haz later contacts Alyssa to apologise and she requests that they meet up. Alyssa explains to Haz what the dog meant to her family and her son Max. Haz feels guilty and agrees to let Trevor to return to his former owners. Alyssa and Max collect Trevor and take him home. Trevor runs away from Alyssa's home and finds his way back to Haz. They recollect Trevor but Mackenzie becomes concerned and contacts Alyssa's husband, George Gavalas (Phil Hayden). He reveals that Trevor is not eating and is homesick and they agree to give Trevor back to Haz.

Slade Westall

Slade Westall, played by Charlie Di Stefano, made his first appearance on 17 January 2024. Slade was originally introduced when he and a group of gang friends terrorised Melanie Pearson ( Lucinda Cowden) after using a dating app to lure her into a trap. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Slade would continue to appear in the series and lead a gang that cause trouble in Erinsborough. Its plot was soon confirmed to be an "ongoing gang storyline". JJ Varga-Murphy (Riley Bryant) becomes embroiled in the gang storyline when he confronts Slade over his acts of vandalism. Slade then begins to threaten JJ for talking to the police. Slade is later attacked by Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson) for vandalising his dead husband's former business but Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) rescues Slade. Slade continues to cause trouble with a spate of vandalism and graffiti against businesses in Erinsborough. Writers continued to escalate the gang violence plot with Slade attacking JJ for reporting him to the police. ''Neighbours'' producers told Kilkelly that JJ would get into "a whole world of trouble" in Slade's gang storyline. Slade's attack causes JJ to steal a knife to defend himself with but the weapon is discovered at his school, causing a lock down and police investigation. Kilkelly branded Slade "the new villain in town".

Slade contacts Melanie via a dating app to arrange a fake date. Melanie waits alone at the Tram restaurant until closing. Slade taunts Melanie from his car while she walks home. His friends record Melanie's reaction. They drive the car towards Melanie and when she shouts at them, Slade throws gunge over Melanie. Haz Devkar ( Shiv Palekar) and Mackenzie Hargreaves ( Georgie Stone) arrive to assist Melanie and Haz chases the car away. Haz forces Slade and his gang to leave Harold's Café after disorderly behaviour. They vandalise the Melanie's drinks business van and JJ orders them to stop. Aaron is furious that Slade graffitied the face of his dead husband David Tanaka ( Takaya Honda) and attacks Slade. He then destroys other residents car tyres by scattering nails in a car park. Slade begins to threaten JJ and is ordered to leave Erinsborough High School, by principal Jane Harris ( Annie Jones) for trespassing. Slade later attacks JJ and absconds, JJ responds by stealing a knife for protection but the weapon is discovered at the school. Police suspect Slade is behind the knife, but JJ later confesses and is suspended.

Slade later kidnaps Hugo Rebecchi (Tanner Ellis-Anderson) and locks him into the boot of his car and goes joyriding. After his care tire blows he abandons his car. Hugo is later found by Aaron and returned to his home. Slade is confronted by Felix Rodwell (James Beaufort) who enlists Slade to help plan a robbery at a construction site. Slade is later spotted in town by JJ's mum Cara Varga-Murphy ( Sara West), who performs a citizens arrest and turns him into the police.

Chelsea Murphy

Chelsea Murphy, played by Viva Bianca, made her first appearance on 18 January 2024. Bianca's casting in an unnamed guest role was announced via a press release issued by Amazon MGM Studios in the United States. The character was announced in advance spoilers and it was revealed she would be introduced as the sister of established character Cara Varga-Murphy ( Sara West) who gives her "an unexpected visit". Bianca revealed that the part of Chelsea is an extended guest role. In a backstage video, she stated "Chelsea sticks around for a while and has quite a bit of business to tend to, and is determined to do so." Bianca described Chelsea as "a really effective manipulator" and often has ulterior motives the surprise others. Bianca added that Chelsea has "always got something else kind of ticking."

Sasha McLain

Sasha McLain, played by Sunny S. Walia, made his first appearance on 23 January 2024. The character and Walia's casting were announced by Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy on 15 January 2024. Sasha had been mentioned numerous times by other characters in the episodes prior to his debut. He is introduced as the estranged husband of Veronica McLain ( Ellen Grimshaw). He arrives in Erinsborough to visit Nicolette Stone ( Hannah Monson). Nicolette had previously seduced Sasha to expose him as a liar and ruined the McLain's marriage. Veronica threatened to expose Nicolette's scheming if she did not help her track Sasha down. Kilkelly added that when Sasha visits Nicolette, Veronica watches them from afar and becomes upset. Following his initial stint, Sasha returned in July 2024, shortly after Kiri Durant (Gemma Bird Matheson) returned to the series.

Nicolette visits Sasha asking for his help to stop Veronica's behaviour. Sasha presumes Nicolette wants to begin a romance, but she quickly corrects his assumption. She asks Sasha to inform Veronica that they never had an affair. Sasha claims that Nicolette had feelings for him which she eventually admits. Sasha fails to convince Veronica and she continues to harass Nicolette. Sasha visits Nicolette in Erinsborough but Veronica witnesses their meeting and presumes they are dating. Several months later, Sasha bumps into Kiri at their local church where he volunteers, cleaning up after it closed down. He informs her that he and Nicolette never had an affair and encourages Kiri to speak to Nicolette.

Felix Rodwell

Felix Rodwell, played by James Beaufort, made his first appearance on 26 February 2024. The character and Beaufort's casting details were announced on 12 February 2024. Felix is the brother of established character Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will), and he comes to stay with Andrew and his family on Ramsay Street. Daniel Kilkelly of Digital Spy reported that Felix would be sharing scenes with JJ Varga-Murphy (Riley Bryant) and revisiting a mystery storyline regarding JJ's paternity. He had previously suspected that Andrew was his father. Following Felix's on-screen debut, the paternity story continued with scenes alluding to Felix being JJ's biological father. Felix is confirmed to be JJ's father in subsequent episodes but conceals this from JJ and Andrew. In a backstage interview, Beaufort called it a "juicy, juicy secret that is going to be boiling and bubbling and frothing" until it is revealed.

Beaufort described Felix as a "supposedly reformed" character who is vocal about having changed. Though he noted, Felix is "probably lying". Will described Felix as Andrew's "funny, witty, smart-talking brother". He believed that Felix's introduction added extra dimensions to Andrew's character and paved way for new stories for his character. Will believed "the sad part" of the plot is that Andrew "genuinely" hopes that Felix is "reformed and changed." He added "it's been a lot of fun playing around with that relationship." Writers invested in Felix's backstory, which is detailed in episodes featuring Felix telling Andrew about his childhood insecurities. They portray Felix as frustrated that Andrew is regarded as the good guy and leaving himself always categorised as a bad guy. Felix plays up to the bad guy image when he plans a robbery at the Eirini Rising construction site. The robbery goes wrong and Felix is arrested and returned to prison. It was announced that Beaufort would make an additional appearance as Felix in prison scenes. JJ goes to visit Felix with Andrew, seeking answers about his father. The scenes were broadcast on 14 May 2024. Felix returned again in September 2024, after the character is seriously injured in a prison brawl and taken to Erinsborough Hospital for treatment. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy branded Felix a "bad boy" type character.

Andrew visits Felix in prison to discuss his parole and he asks Felix if he provided a sperm sample to Philippa Wade. Andrew explains that Philippa gave it to Cara Varga-Murphy ( Sara West) and the donor could be JJ's father. Andrew explains that pages were missing from Philippa's diary. Felix denies it but later studies a letter containing the missing diary pages. Andrew visits Felix again and agrees to back his parole and provides Felix a place to live on the condition he continues his good behaviour. Felix is paroled and moves in with the family. He starts forming a bond with his potential biological son JJ, and helps him with boxing lessons and fighting tactics, so he can defend himself against his tormentor Slade Westall (Charlie Di Stefano). Not long after Andrew finds Felix in the spa with his girlfriend Jools Halliday (Eva Seymour). He gets a job as a labourer at the Erinsborough High School and Eirini Rising development and plans to flee the country with Jools. He and JJ puncture Slade's car tire, and he convinces JJ to keep it a secret. Felix enlists Slade to help plan a robbery at the construction site. Andrew questions Felix about a break in at Harolds Cafe. Felix worries about not having an alibi, but JJ lies and provides Felix with a false alibi. Felix tells Jools he is bonding with JJ and wants to remain in Erinsborough. JJ's parents Cara and Remi Varga-Murphy ( Naomi Rukavina) ban JJ from spending time with Felix. Holly Hoyland ( Lucinda Armstrong Hall) flirts with Felix but Jools confronts her and rubs cake in her hair. Felix then tells Jools he wants to go leave again to distance himself from JJ. Felix discusses the planned robbery with Jools and JJ witnesses the conversation.

Felix lies to JJ that someone is threatening him and he needs to pay them off. JJ agrees to keep the planned robbery a secret to protect Felix. JJ is shocked that Felix has enlisted Slade's help. Felix tells JJ he made an agreement with Slade to prevent him bullying JJ further. Cara makes a citizens arrest after noticing Slade in the street. JJ offers to be Slade's new accomplice in the robbery, but he refuses. Holly finds a detailed plan about the Eirini Rising development and tells Andrew that Felix is planning a robbery. Felix goes ahead with his robbery and accepts JJ's help. Andrew interrupts the robbery, JJ attempts to drive off but knocks a scaffolding down onto Andrew. Felix tries to escape but Andrew reports Felix to the police. He attempts to meet with Jools to abscond, but the police intercept and arrest Felix. JJ discovers that Felix is his biological father and Remi arranges a meeting with Felix in police custody. She asks Felix to deny all contact with JJ, which he agrees to. JJ visits Felix in prison, where Felix admits he is not interested in being his father.

Jeffrey Swan

Jeffrey Swan, played by Tim Potter, made his first appearance on 10 April 2024. On 2 April 2024, Simon Timblick from Whattowatch.com reported Potter's casting and character details. He revealed that Jeffrey is an IT technician who arrives at Lassiters to deliver a report into an IT glitch. His arrival panics Chelsea Murphy ( Viva Bianca), who used the glitch to trap her business rival Krista Sinclair (Majella Davis) in a sauna room. Sara Baalla from Digital Spy reported that Jeffrey's report directly implicates Chelsea in the incident, which resulted in Krista losing her unborn baby. She added that Chelsea becomes determined to convince Jeffrey to doctor his report and makes him an "indecent proposal" in exchange. It was then confirmed that Jeffrey would appear in additional episodes, wanting to pursue a romance with Chelsea. Michael Adams from '' Metro'' reported that Chelsea is "left embarrassed" because it is "evident" that Jeffrey has "fallen for her". Jeffrey last appeared during the episode broadcast on 8 May 2024.

Jeffrey arrives at Lassiters to deliver an IT report to Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis). He refuses to hand the report over to acting manager Chelsea. She follows him to The Waterhole pub and questions him about the report. Jeffrey asks Chelsea to buy him lunch in exchange for his findings within the report. He tells Chelsea that he has discovered the door lock request came from her username and vows to tell Paul she is responsible for locking Krista in the sauna. Chelsea propositions Jeffrey and they have sex in an office in exchange for him doctoring the report. Jeffrey visits Chelsea at Lassiters wanting to begin a relationship with her. Chelsea is forced to play along to keep Jeffrey from telling Krista the truth. Chelsea agrees to meet up with him again but Krista sees Jeffrey leaving Chelsea's hotel room. Krista demands to be involved in their next meeting. Krista delivers wine to Chelsea's room and discovers Jeffrey in there. He tells Krista that he is in a relationship with Chelsea and she leaves. Chelsea threatens Krista to keep quiet about their affair. When Chelsea and Paul get engaged, Jeffrey turns up with Krista and reveals their affair.

Wade Fernsby

Wade Fernsby, played by Stephen Phillips, made his first appearance on 17 April 2024. Phillips' character and casting details were announced on 25 March 2024. The character was announced as Zach Wade, and was initially credited as Zach Fernsby. Phillips previously appeared in the show as Cameron Hodder in 2003. His character is involved in a storyline centred around Haz Devkar ( Shiv Palekar) and his mysterious behaviour. Haz's partner Mackenzie Hargreaves ( Georgie Stone) meets with Wade as she investigates Haz's past. It was also revealed that Wade would feature in a deep fake and hacking storyline involving Haz. Promotional photographs showed Wade and Haz in scenes filmed on location, using their laptops. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy reported that Wade would be "calling the shots" in the scenes as he intimidates Haz, resulting in a "high stakes chase" resulting in Haz being run over by a car.

Mackenzie arranges to meet with Wade, who tells her the cruel things that her boyfriend, Haz and his hacking gang did to him. Wade reveals it ruined his marriage, his wife lost her job and no one believed his innocence. Mackenzie tells Haz she has met with Wade and is disappointed that he could ruin someone else's life. Mackenzie arranges another meeting with Wade, but he secretly relishes in the fact he has been committing hacking crimes against Haz and his neighbours. He forces Haz to join him and start helping him commit deep fake crimes, otherwise he will target Mackenzie. Haz agrees and they start working in a city building. Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) and undercover officers secretly wait outside. Wade realises Haz has set him up and he absconds. A chase ensues and Haz is runover by Mackenzie in a car. Andrew catches Wade and places him under arrest. Holly Hoyland ( Lucinda Armstrong Hall) sees Wade being taken away and she confronts him before he is taken to prison. Wade is later taken to hospital after being caught in up in a prison fight, he shares a room with Felix Rodwell (James Beaufort), who overhears him talking on a phone about planning to sabotage Haz and Mackenzie's wedding. Andrew later questions Wade, but he denies any plans to hurt Haz or Mackenzie. Andrew and Felix later discover that Wade ordered fellow prisoner Bowser Jones (John Klotz) to cut the breaks on Haz and Mackenzie's car. His plan fails when Terese Willis ( Rebekah Elmaloglou) drives off in the car instead, causing her to hit a tree.

Victor Stone

Victor "Vic" Stone, played by Craig Hall, made his first appearance on 14 May 2024. Hall's casting details were announced on 22 April 2024. Producers had planned to introduce the character in 2022, however, the storyline was scrapped when ''Neighbours'' was cancelled. The character has often been mentioned on-screen by his family, which includes his former wife Jane Harris ( Annie Jones), daughter Nicolette Stone ( Hannah Monson) and son Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux). Daniel Kilkelly of Digital Spy reported that Victor "wastes no time" getting reacquainted with his family and meeting his son's girlfriend Sadie Rodwell (Emerald Chan). The original plans for the character's 2022 introduction included Victor tempting Jane away from Clive Gibbons ( Geoff Paine) and taking advantage of Karl ( Alan Fletcher) and Susan Kennedy's ( Jackie Woodburne) financial vulnerability. It was also revealed that Victor would be hiding a secret that Sadie becomes burdened with. Victor's arrival was previewed in a promotional trailer revealing the show's new storylines. Victor's initial stint ended on 2 July, and he is set to return from 7 October 2024.

Victor's secret was revealed in unpublicised scenes, in which he announces he is terminally ill. Writers explored the effects of Victor's revelation has on Byron, Nicolette and Jane in subsequent episodes. In addition, Victor continues to meddle in his children's love lives. Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy assessed that "Victor's wild meddling" ways make Sadie feel uncomfortable.

Victor arrives in Erinsborough to reconnect with his children. Jane and Bryon are sceptical about his intentions, but Nicolette asks them to give Victor a chance. He claims to be struggling financially and asks Bryon to accommodate him. Victor checks his bank balance which is more than 1 million dollars. Victor meets Byron's girlfriend Sadie, who accidentally opens his laptop and discovers a secret, which he asks her to keep. Jane confronts Victor about his intentions for returning and is shocked when he returns a vase belonging to her grandmother, Nell Mangel ( Vivian Gray). Jane thanks him but Byron and Nicolette become suspicious about how he could afford to buy back the vase. Sadie warns Victor that they are suspicious and asks him to tell the truth. Byron confronts Victor when he witnesses an uncomfortable exchange with Sadie. Victor reveals that Sadie discovered that he is terminally ill. Victor also reveals that he has over 1 million dollars left, and he wishes to use it to start a business for Byron and Nicolette to operate, however they are not keen on the idea. A frustrated Byron confronts Victor over his secrets. Victor organizes a mini golf day with Byron and Nicolette and gets Byron back on his side. He questions Byron about his relationship and future with Sadie, who explains that he could see a future with her eventually. Victor then takes this the wrong way and informs Sadie's mum Wendy Rodwell (Candice Leask) that Byron was discussing marriage and baby plans with Sadie to him, which shocks Wendy. After Nicolette tells him that she spent the night with Amira Devkar (Maria Thattil), Victor approaches her and asks her about her future plans with Nicolette, however she informs him that their night together was just a bit of fun and that she lives on the other side of the country. Byron and Nicolette are infuriated after hearing about Victor interfering in their love lives.

Victor organizes a bush hike with Byron, Nicolette and Jane, but is sad when Jane decides to miss it. After Jane changes her mind and hikes through the bush looking for them, Byron and Nicolette split up to search for her. Victor goes off looking by himself, however he loses energy and collapses. He is later found by Byron, Nicolette and Jane and rushed to hospital, before recovering at Jane's house. Victor rests in Jane's bed, but is discovered by her stepdaughter Sam Young (Henrietta Graham), who becomes concerned about Vic and Jane growing closer. Victor questions Jane about her long distance relationship with her fiancé Mike Young ( Guy Pearce), but she quickly shuts down his concerns. After Jane's engagement ring goes missing, she immediately accuses Vic of taking it, however he ensures her he never touched it. Jane later apologizes to him and he helps her try to find it. Victor later offers to invest in the Yorokobi Vinyard owned by Leo Tanaka ( Tim Kano), as a business venture for Byron and Nicolette. Leo soon tells him that is offer is way too low to accept, however Victor tells him that there is no way his business can survive its ongoing financial crisis if he doesn't accept his offer. Local doctor and neighbour Remi Varga-Murphy ( Naomi Rukavina) asks Victor to come into the hospital for a checkup and to run some tests, and she subsequently informs him that his cancer is in full remission and he is no longer dying. Jane vents to him about her concerns over her relationship with Mike, and he abruptly kisses her, causing Jane to immediately leave. Leo eventually agrees to accept Victor's offer on the vinyard, and Victor, Byron Nicolette and Jane have a breakfast to celebrate, however he doesn't tell them about his remission. He later apologizes to Jane for kissing her and she thanks him for being understanding of her. Soon after, Byron and Nicolette come home to find Victor gone. He left them and Jane a letter of explanation and $20 000 each for Byron and Nicolette.

Amira Devkar

Amira Devkar, played by Maria Thattil, made her first appearance on 21 May 2024. The character and Thattil's casting details were announced on 7 December 2023. Thattil began filming her guest role during the same week. Of her casting, Thattil explained that she sent in a self-taped audition for another character when the serial began casting for the new series, which the producers "loved" and she received a call back for Amira instead. Thattil felt that she was joining the show at the right time and the opportunity was "so aligned to my deepest values". She continued: "I genuinely can't remember ever seeing a gay female South Asian Australian character on an Aussie TV show in my childhood and I always wonder how proper representation – beyond tokenism or exaggerated caricatures – would've changed some of my experiences with racism, homophobia, feeling like I didn't belong, wasn't normal or Australian enough. This role feels 'full circle' because it's giving me the chance to be the authentic representation that I, and wider Australia, has needed."

Thattil's character is the older sister of Haz Devkar ( Shiv Palekar), who was introduced in 2023. A reporter for 10Play said Amira was "sometimes bossy" towards her brother and would "bring some flair to the vibrant world of Erinsborough." They also stated that due to "challenges with their strict parents", Amira and Haz would have "an emotional reunion". The reporter added that Amira's arrival would not be welcomed by everyone, even though she has her brother's "best interest at heart". ''Neighbours'' wrote on social media: "We're delighted to announce that Maria Thattil will be joining the cast next year" and they teased, "But why she turns up suddenly at Harold's is yet to be revealed". Alison Slade from '' TVTimes'' revealed that Amira would assume the role of the "bossy big sister". Amira’s arrival was previewed in a promotional trailer revealing the show's new storylines. The trailer also revealed that the character would share scenes with Nicolette Stone ( Hannah Monson). Upon her debut, it was revealed that Thattil would appear in six episodes in her guest role as Amira. After initially departing on 4 June, Amira is due to return from 11 September.

Amira arrives to visit her brother, Haz in hospital where he is in a coma. She tells doctor Gavin Bowman (Cameron MacDonald) that no one else can visit Haz. Mackenzie Hargreaves ( Georgie Stone) tries to reason with Amira, but she blames Mackenzie for running Haz over. Amira and Mackenzie get into an argument and Haz wakes from his coma. Amira tells Haz she forgives him and tries to dissuade him from reuniting with Mackenzie. She asks Haz to move back to his family home in Margaret River. Amira continues asking Haz to leave and he later agrees. Amira visits Haz's coffee shop and bumps into Nicolette where they realise they are wearing identical necklaces. Amira and Nicolette drink together at The Waterhole and have sex at Amira's hotel room. Amira admits she likes Nicolette but Victor Stone ( Craig Hall) interferes, telling Amira to consider a future with Nicolette. Amira is off put by Victor's suggestions and tells an embarrassed Nicolette that she does not want serious romance. Amira also takes charge in looking after Haz at his home, side-lining Mackenzie's attempts. The two begin arguing about her control over Haz, and Amira announces that she is leaving. Mackenzie apologises and asks her to stay. Amira states that their fight is not her reason for leaving, and that she is needed at her work back home and leaves.

Amira returns to Erinsborough several months later for Haz and Mackenzie's wedding. She plans to stay at the number 32 share house but Byron Stone (Xavier Molyneux) requests that she stay at Lassiters because Nicolette had just been kicked out of her house and needed to stay there. Amira tells Mackenzie and Nicolette that her and Haz's parents won't be attending the wedding, and they agree to keep it from Haz until they are certain. She helps Byron put together a video tape to help convince her parents to come, but it doesn't work. Haz later overhears Amira and Mackenzie addressing this and is devestated. On the wedding day, their parents do decide to come and Amira shoes them to Haz's house. They all attend the wedding before saying goodbye to Haz and Mackenzie, who are moving to France.

Logan Shembri

Logan Shembri, played by Matthew Backer, made his first appearance on 24 June 2024. The character and Backer's casting were revealed on 2 May 2024 via a promotional trailer for the serial's upcoming storylines. Logan will be introduced as a new love interest for Aaron Brennan (Matt Wilson). A show publicist later teased a "mysterious connection" for Logan and unnamed established character in the show. The show's executive producer Jason Herbison told Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy that Logan has a "chance meeting" with Melanie Pearson ( Lucinda Cowden) while she is travelling and this is "the catalyst" for his arrival in Erinsborough. Herbison revealed that "there's more to him than meets the eye and he hones in on Aaron." He described it as an unconventional romantic storyline and Aaron is not ready for a new relationship. He concluded that the story has "very unexpected turns, which I don't think the audience will see coming."

Logan meets Melanie at her drinks van business, Drinks Divas and agrees to help her out. Logan reveals he is looking for a new beginning and does not want to return to his former home. Melanie suggests he returns to Erinsborough with her to see if he likes it and he agrees. Logan meets Melanie's friends and takes a keen interest in Aaron. Logan looks at an old photograph of him and Aaron dead husband David Tanaka ( Takaya Honda) on his phone. Logan convinces Aaron to go running with him and then join him for a coffee. Logan steals Aaron's earphones and returns them as an excuse to visit his home. Logan looks at a photograph of David and Aaron when he is alone and behaves suspiciously. Logan and Aaron have a cocktail making lesson but Logan mimics an action that triggers a memory of David which makes Aaron angry. Remi Varga-Murphy ( Naomi Rukavina) recalls meeting Logan at a medical conference. Remi reveals that Logan was a doctor but he claims to have just been at the conference as catering staff. Karl Kennedy ( Alan Fletcher) becomes suspicious when Logan tells him he is from two separate locations during different conversations.

Logan and Aaron continue to spend time together socialising. When Aaron donates David's clothing to charity, Logan purchases it and becomes emotional when he tries on David's shirt. Melanie steals Logan's caravan keys and finds David's belongings. Logan catches her and she demands to know the truth. Logan claims he is keeping David's belongings should Aaron regret giving them away. He quits his job at Drinks Divas and tells Aaron what he has done. Aaron believes Logan and berates Melanie for not trusting Logan. Remi discovers that Logan worked at the same hospital as David and his brother Leo Tanaka ( Tim Kano) reveals that Logan developed an obsession with David. He adds that David reported Logan to the university for harassment and Melanie tells Aaron about Logan's lies. Aaron confronts Logan but he becomes emotional and explains that he genuinely loved David. Aaron continues to spend time with Logan and they bond over their shared grief, they later kiss and have sex. Melanie and Nicolette Stone ( Hannah Monson) are angry that Logan is still seeing Aaron and convinces him to leave Erinsborough. Logan later contacts Aaron and reveals that a former partner has been diagnosed with Hepatitis B and they both may have contracted it.

Quinn Lao

Quinn Lao, played by Louis Lè, made his first appearance on 1 July 2024. The character and Lè's casting were announced by Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy. Quinn had previously been previewed in a video post via ''Neighbours'' social media channels, in which Shiv Palekar in character as Haz Devkar, previewed cryptic hints about future storylines. In the video, he alluded to Wendy Rodwell (Candice Leask) cosying up to Quinn, questioning her loyalty to her husband Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will). Kilkelly added that Quinn is a new friend of Wendy's, who she meets when she begins studying at university. Advance spoiler photographs showcased Wendy and Quinn drinking alcohol in party scenes.

Quinn attends Eden Hills University and his friend, Parker Reed (Gaz Dutlow) introduces him to his new friend, Wendy. Quinn and Wendy get drunk together and go out clubbing. The following day, Quinn asks Wendy to go out drinking again and she agrees. Parker organises a traffic light party, but the original host cancels and Wendy agrees to hold the party at her house. Quinn and Parker helps Wendy organise the party and Quinn is confused when Wendy does not wear green. He assumes she is single and they get drunk. He propositions Wendy for sex but her daughter Sadie Rodwell (Emerald Chan) and husband arrive, Andrew Rodwell (Lloyd Will) arrive home. Quinn is shocked that Wendy his her family from him and apologises for propositioning her. They later talk at university and agree to remain friends. Wendy gets an important role at university but Heidi Runnels (Whitney Duff) accuses her of receiving it because of her ethnicity. Wendy confides her feelings to Quinn and they bond over their shared experiences of racism. Quinn attends Wendy's award ceremony and acceptance speech, where he supports her for choosing not to confront the university. Sadie notices that Quinn and Wendy are getting close and she asks Wendy about the situation. Quinn goes to The Waterhole to visit Wendy and complain about his family visiting. He offers to work a shift for Wendy when a staff member calls in sick. He and Wendy continue to have conversations about their ethnicity and experiences, leading to an intense moment between them and she asks Quinn to leave. Sadie begins to worry about Quinn and Wendy's friendship and tells Andrew. He confronts Wendy, who admits Quinn has feelings for her. Quinn attends a party at Wendy's but Andrew confronts him and he leaves. Wendy then informs Quinn that they can no longer spend time together.

Heath Royce

Heath Royce (also Silversen), played by Ethan Panizza, debuted on 31 July 2024. The character was announced on 1 July 2024 and with limited information provided. A promotional photograph of Heath revealed that he will share stories with Tess Carmichael (Anica Calida). Daniel Kilkelly from Digital Spy described Heath as "a handsome newcomer" and would also gain an admirer in Holly Hoyland ( Lucinda Armstrong Hall). Of the embargoed plot, Kilkelly added "more details about Tess' return storyline and the involvement of newcomer Heath will be revealed in the coming weeks." Heath was involved in the show's "Death in the Outback" storyline, presenting a danger for Holly when they embark on a holiday together. Heath was killed on 22 August; the character was eaten by a crocodile after Holly pushed him into a creek.

Heath arrives at Lassiters hotel to visit Tess, where she reveals they worked closely together in the US. When alone, the duo discuss their plans to con Lassiter's and leave the company together and gain revenge on Reece Sinclair ( Micha Barton) for forcing Tess to take a job overseas. He and Tess rent a holiday home and he hires a sports car. Heath shows an attraction to Holly and she responds by getting into his car for a ride. He takes her to his rental mansion, telling her he lives there by himself, and they have sex. Heath gets advice from local lawyer Toadie Rebecchi ( Ryan Moloney), calling himself Heath Silverson, about buying a property in Maui. Tess becomes concerned that it will raise suspicion and asks Heath to cancel the deal. He is forced to make up a story about his name after Mackenzie Hargreaves ( Georgie Stone) realizes he is using two different surnames. He later confronts her and attempts to intimidate her. Sadie Rodwell (Emerald Chan) catches Heath kissing Tess and informs Holly. Holly questions him, but he tells her that he will end things with Tess soon, and they continue to see each other behind Tess's back.

Tess orders Heath to go to Mount Harper in Outback Australia where there is another Sinclair investment, and he secretly takes Holly with him. He is confronted by Mackenzie before leaving, but he tells her to back away from Holly's personal life. After Mackenzie tells Toadie and Melanie Pearson ( Lucinda Cowden) about his behavior, they go to his house and discover his fake passport, before being taken hostage by Justin Ashton (Richard Sutherland). Holly's parents Karl ( Alan Fletcher) and Susan Kennedy ( Jackie Woodburne) begin to worry as she stops answering their phone calls, which is really because Heath threw it into a nearby river without her knowing. Heath begins to become aggressive towards Holly which concerns her, and she discovers his journal with all of his and Tess's plans. Tess orders Heath to go and check on Toadie and Melanie, who are tied up in a shack nearby after being sent on they train to the outback by Justin. Holly tries to get help on Heath's phone, but he catches her. Heath packs up and leaves the next morning, unaware that Holly is hiding in the back of his ute. After Toadie and Melanie break free, Holly does her best to distract Heath, but he becomes angry when she treis to run away. He pushes her into a tank of corn, and retrieves a rifle from under the shack, before going searching for Toadie and Melanie. Heath meets up with Tess, who begins to feel remorseful about what they had done. Heath is then called by Paul Robinson (Stefan Dennis), who bribes him with money to see if Holly, Toadie and Melanie are safe. He chases down Melanie and Holly after she rescued her. They are spotted by Mackenzie and Haz Devkar ( Shiv Palekar), after they flew to the outback in search for Holly. Heath locked Tess in the back of his ute, but she was rescued by Mackenzie. He chases Holly and Melanie to the river with a gun and begins firing shots, before Holly comes up behind him and pushes him into the water. Heath is then attacked by a crocodile.

Max Ramsay

Max Ramsay, played by Ben Jackson, will make his debut in 2024. Max will be introduced as a new member of the Ramsay family, one of the series' original families. The character and casting were announced on 1 October 2024 on the official ''Neighbours'' Instagram account, where they accompanied a picture of Jackson with the caption, "After 10 years, a Ramsay is back on Ramsay Street! We're thrilled to announce that Ben Jackson will soon be joining the cast as Max Ramsay. But what's brought a member of the show's original family back to Erinsborough? All will be revealed..." ''Neighbours'' later released another photo which revealed that Max is the son of original character Shane Ramsay ( Peter O'Brien), who had previously appeared on the soap between 1985 and 1987 and in 2022. It was also announced that O'Brien had reprised the role and would be returning to the soap for a "visit". Susannah Alexander from Digital Spy questioned whether Shane and Max's relationship would be "harmonious".

Yasmine Shields

Yasmine "Yas" Shields, played by Chrishell Stause, will make her first appearance in November 2024. The character and Stause's casting was announced on 29 May 2024. Stause will begin filming her guest role in July. The serial's executive producer Jason Herbison revealed Stause's character was specifically created for her. Of her casting, the actress stated: "I am honored and excited to join such a beloved and iconic show! Coming from the world of soaps in the US, it’s back to my first love in the entertainment industry. They pitched me an idea for a character, and I was immediately excited to figure out a way to make it happen. Ramsay Street, here I come." Yasmine or "Yas" comes to Erinsborough with a business opportunity for some of the established characters. Herbison told viewers to "expect intrigue and surprises – and many implications for the residents of Ramsay Street."

Others

References

External links

Characters and cast
at the Official ''Neighbours'' website

{{Neighbours characters, year

2024
2024 in Australian television
*, Neighbours