List of Home and Away characters introduced in 2017

Home and Away

Company type	Television series
Industry	Television, Entertainment
Founded	January 17, 1988 (1988-01-17)
Founder	Seven Network
Headquarters	Australia
Area served	Australia
Website	7plus.com.au/home-and-away

Home and Away is a long-running Australian soap opera that premiered on the Seven Network on 17 January 1988. This compilation highlights characters who were introduced during 2017, all under the guidance of executive producer Lucy Addario. The series' 30th season commenced broadcasting on 30 January 2017. Notable new characters include Riley Hawkins who appeared in January, Scarlett Snow introduced in May, and the Astoni family—parents Ben and Maggie, along with their daughters Coco and Ziggy—who debuted in June. July brought the arrivals of Robbo and Jennifer Dutton, August saw the introduction of Beth Ellis, October featured Ryder Jackson, November added Willow Harris, and December welcomed Jasmine Delaney.

Riley Hawkins

Riley Hawkins, played by Ryan O'Kane, made his first appearance on 31 January 2017. Interestingly, O'Kane’s roommate also auditioned for this role. Riley is introduced as a surgeon working at Northern Districts Hospital and is revealed to be Tori Morgan’s (played by Penny McNamee) former boyfriend. Shortly after his arrival, he performs surgery on Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

His unexpected return surprises Tori, who has been under witness protection alongside her siblings following their parents’ shooting incident. Riley confides in Nate Cooper (Kyle Pryor) about his desire to rekindle things with Tori and expresses remorse for his prior unfaithfulness. Although Tori initially approaches him cautiously, they briefly reconcile. Their relationship deteriorates after Riley engages in unethical behavior by falsifying medical records to implicate Nate. Following a confrontation involving Justin Morgan, Riley resigns from his hospital position and departs from the town.

Scarlett Snow

Scarlett Snow, enacted by Tania Nolan, first appeared on-screen on 8 May 2017. At the time, Nolan was based in Los Angeles but traveled to Sydney to audition, ultimately securing a six-month contract. She characterized Scarlett as somewhat enigmatic with a sorrowful history, which motivated her decision to relocate for the role.

Within the storyline, Scarlett crosses paths with Brody Morgan (Jackson Heywood) when he hijacks her vehicle while fleeing from law enforcement. After detaining him, she assists Brody in confronting his drug addiction by engaging his family and providing support. Scarlett disapproves of Justin Morgan’s (James Stewart) methods regarding Brody's rehabilitation and subsequently takes employment at Alf Stewart’s bait shop after losing her residence due to Brody’s relapse and theft.

Scarlett faces intimidation from Bruno Addlen, who was employed by her estranged husband Caleb Snow to locate her. She manages to settle Bruno’s demands through a loan repaid by Brody’s family. Developing a bond with Justin’s daughter, Scarlett reveals to Justin that her son Max passed away a year earlier—a tragedy that contributed to her marital breakdown. Despite initial friction, Scarlett and Justin form a complex relationship complicated further by Caleb's interference.

After surviving an assault and an explosion that injures her, Scarlett grapples with her feelings for both Justin and Caleb. Ultimately, she chooses to leave the Bay with Caleb, acknowledging the difficulties she faces in her relationship with Justin.

Ziggy Astoni

Ziggy Astoni, brought to life by Sophie Dillman, made her first appearance on 20 June 2017. As the eldest child of Ben and Maggie Astoni, her introduction marked the return of a traditional nuclear family to the soap after a 17-year hiatus. Ziggy is characterized as a rebellious and spirited teenager, positioned as a potential romantic interest for Brody Morgan.

Ben Astoni

Ben Astoni, portrayed by Rohan Nichol, also debuted on 20 June 2017. Nichol moved from Melbourne to Manly to be nearer to the production location at Palm Beach. Ben relocates to Summer Bay alongside his wife Maggie and their daughters, Coco and Ziggy. The Astoni family represents the first nuclear family introduced to the series since 2000. Nichol described Ben as a dependable, affectionate, and relatable character—a likable "good guy" for audiences.

Maggie Astoni

Maggie Astoni, played by Kestie Morassi, arrived on screen on 21 June 2017. Morassi’s casting was announced earlier in 2017, with character specifics revealed on 4 June. She highlighted the fast-paced nature of filming on the show as a notable change from her previous film work. Maggie moves to Summer Bay with her husband Ben Astoni (Rohan Nichol) and their daughters Coco (Anna Cocquerel) and Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman). The introduction of the Astonis marked the first new nuclear family on the soap since the Sutherlands in 2000.

Coco Astoni

Coco Astoni, enacted by Anna Cocquerel, was introduced on 21 June 2017 as the youngest daughter in the Astoni family. Their arrival signified the soap’s first nuclear family addition in nearly twenty years. Coco’s storyline included being suspended from school due to cyberbullying, which prompted her parents to move the family to Summer Bay.

In Summer Bay, Coco develops a friendship with Raffy Morrison (Olivia Deeble) and becomes romantically linked with VJ Patterson, who initially believes Coco is older because of Raffy’s misleading him. At Summer Bay High, Coco experiences bullying and struggles with bulimia, an eating disorder central to her narrative that addresses mental health awareness. After collapsing and receiving hospital care, she acknowledges her illness and embarks on recovery supported by loved ones.

Coco also deals with complicated relationships, including an on-again, off-again romance with Ryder Jackson (Lukas Radovich). She stands by her mother Maggie during a cancer diagnosis and fulfills duties as maid of honour at sister Ziggy’s wedding. Eventually, despite Maggie’s reluctance, Coco chooses to attend boarding school in Cairns.

Several months later, Coco returns briefly for Raffy’s birthday celebration, confronting Brody Morgan over infidelity issues affecting Ziggy. She reconciles with friends before heading back to boarding school.

Her journey highlights themes of familial bonds, adolescent challenges, and perseverance within the series’ storytelling.

Robbo

Robbo (also known as John Doe), portrayed by Jake Ryan, made his debut on 25 July 2017. Prior to his appearance, Ryan lost 13 kilograms to prepare for the role designed to fill the "heart-throb gap" left by Darryl Braxton (Stephen Peacocke). Robbo was introduced as a "bad boy" handyman, an AFP federal agent, and gym owner who became central to key storylines until his departure in January 2020. Ryan described his exit as a natural conclusion following extensive plot developments.

Initially found amnesiac and identified only as John Doe while hiding at a cove, Robbo gradually integrated into Summer Bay’s community. Despite memory loss, he formed connections with characters like Kat Chapman and took part in local activities including maintenance work at the Caravan Park and rescuing residents. His enigmatic past and tattoos triggered investigations leading to perilous encounters.

Robbo’s true identity was eventually uncovered when he regained his memory as Beckett Reid—an undercover AFP officer named Ryan Shaw—tasked with protecting Kat and pursuing criminals responsible for his family’s deaths. His official identity had been erased for operational secrecy, complicating his life in Summer Bay.

After revealing his background, Robbo chose not to rejoin the AFP and instead bought the local gym, aligning with his entrepreneurial goals. His romantic story arcs involved Jasmine Delaney and Tori Morgan and included complex themes such as family planning struggles and coping with loss. Following a miscarriage and ensuing tensions, Robbo reconciled with Jasmine leading to their marriage.

Robbo’s storyline concluded tragically after a car accident resulted in fatal complications despite surgical intervention. His character remains significant for exploring undercover law enforcement narratives, personal trauma, and integration within the Summer Bay community.

Jennifer Dutton

Jennifer Dutton, played by Brittany Santariga, made her first appearance on 27 July 2017. Her casting was announced in June 2017 amid filming at Palm Beach, New South Wales. Introduced as a high school student who bullies Coco Astoni, Jennifer later develops a romantic connection with Hunter King (Scott Lee). Santariga's portrayal attracted significant attention at Summer Bay High.

Initially, Jennifer targets Coco Astoni with bullying tactics, teasing her about an embarrassing nickname and assigning her detention. She intensifies her harassment by tampering with Coco’s locker and ridiculing her social media posts. Raffy Morrison steps in to defend Coco, which escalates into a physical altercation resulting in suspensions for both girls. Jennifer uncovers Coco’s eating disorder and manipulates this information to secure a date with VJ Patterson, causing tension between Coco and Raffy.

Jennifer’s involvement extends to various social situations and relationships: she persuades Raffy to drink at a fashion launch event, flirts with Mason Morgan during gym sessions, and offers support to Hunter King following his breakup. Despite objections from Olivia Fraser Richards, Jennifer and Hunter begin dating. After attending a university party where her father Nick catches her drinking, Jennifer runs away and ends up living with Hunter at Summer Bay House.

Their relationship concludes when Alf Stewart finds them together; Hunter ends things with Jennifer, who briefly experiences homelessness before returning to live with her father Nick, marking the end of her storyline in Summer Bay.

Beth Ellis

Elizabeth "Beth" Ellis, portrayed by Anneliese Apps, first appeared on 31 August 2017. Apps landed the role five months after graduating from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Initially unsure about her audition performance, she was delighted to receive a callback and learned she had secured the role a week later.

Apps described Beth as "cheeky" with multiple layers and someone who strives to uplift those around her. Introduced as a romantic interest for Mason Morgan (Pledger), Beth’s narrative was described as "emotional." Apps explained that Beth identifies with Mason in some ways and wants to support him.

While at the hospital, Beth overhears Mason expressing frustration over his paralysis. She wears nursing scrubs to lift his spirits, encouraging him to race around the corridors in his wheelchair. Their relationship progresses as Mason introduces Beth to his sister Tori Morgan (McNamee). Initially pretending to be a nurse, Beth later reveals she is actually a patient being treated for cardiomyopathy while awaiting a heart transplant. She confesses to Mason that she preferred the nurse persona to avoid pity, and they decide to rebuild their friendship.

Beth motivates Mason to forgive his brother Brody Morgan (Heywood) for causing his injury. Upon discovering Beth’s bucket list, Mason arranges matching tattoos for them both. Their bond grows through shared experiences including a dinner date, skinny dipping, and visiting a casino—where Beth faints due to her condition. Mason rushes her to Tori, who assists in transferring Beth to an ambulance. Later, Beth visits Mason and he introduces her as his girlfriend.

When Mason meets Beth’s father Alan Ellis (McDonough), he realizes Beth has not informed her parents about their relationship. Alan invites Mason to lunch with Beth and her mother Jackie Ellis (Coopes). After Alan requests Mason keep his distance from Beth, she confronts her father firmly about continuing the relationship. Following a collapse that leads to hospital admission requiring a stent, Beth’s health deteriorates and she is prioritized on the transplant list.

Feeling temporarily better, Beth enjoys an outing with Mason during which he presents her with a promise ring on the beach. Suddenly experiencing shortness of breath again, she is rushed back to hospital where she suffers a fatal arrhythmia and passes away. After the funeral, Mason envisions Beth encouraging him to move forward with his life.

Ryder Jackson

Ryder Jackson, played by Lukas Radovich, made his first appearance on 25 October 2017. Radovich was cast soon after completing his studies at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, marking his acting debut. Ryder is introduced as the son of Quinn Jackson (Lara Cox) and the grandson of Alf Stewart (Ray Meagher). His storyline began with him breaking into the Surf Club and attempting to steal from Hunter King and VJ Patterson, which not only revealed his familial connections but also raised questions about his personal situation.

Willow Harris

Willow Harris (also known as Ranger), portrayed by Sarah Roberts, entered the series on 14 November 2017. Prior to securing this role, Roberts auditioned for the characters Kat Chapman and Scarlett Snow. She described Willow as a resilient, self-reliant, and devoted individual who injects both trouble and complexity into Summer Bay. Willow is depicted as a "bad girl" whose actions are driven by a fierce loyalty to those she cares about, enriching her narrative arc. Additionally, she becomes a key romantic partner for Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

Jasmine Delaney

Jasmine Delaney, enacted by Sam Frost, debuted on 18 December 2017. Frost's casting was revealed on 17 July 2017 while she was participating in Hell's Kitchen Australia. After undergoing a second audition, she landed the role, marking her first acting experience. Frost expressed enthusiasm, having been a longtime viewer of Home and Away.

Her casting drew some criticism from fellow actors who perceived it as a promotional tactic. Jasmine’s initial storyline involved a car accident that led to the death of Kat Chapman, portrayed by Pia Miller. Frost characterized Jasmine as "reserved" with "nervous energy," concealing secrets and a troubled history.

Others

Date(s)	Character	Actor	Role Summary
31 January–23 November	Luc Patterson	Eva Lockyer, Piper Dickson, Annabel May Sealey, Tayari Gee, Archie Freeland, Sterling McKenna Foster, Anastasia Lee Hayes, Sierra Sila, Lucas Bowman	Luc is the daughter of Billie Ashford and Mick Jennings, conceived through Mick's assault on Billie. Billie allows her partner VJ Patterson to believe he is Luc's father until their wedding day. Luc is born shortly after Billie escapes a bushfire. VJ and Billie name her Luc in memory of Billie's late brother Luke Ashford. Mick abducts Luc but returns her via his mother Irene Roberts. Following Billie's collapse and diagnosis with terminal cancer, she passes away holding Luc. VJ faces challenges caring for Luc, so she remains with Irene. Ash gains temporary custody but nearly endangers Luc due to his brother Patrick Stanwood’s PTSD struggles. Luc suffers from bowel torsion and septicaemia requiring surgery, from which she fully recovers. Mick returns but acknowledges he cannot parent Luc; after Irene collapses, Mick secretly takes Luc to her home. Ash kidnaps Mick leading to custody disputes. Mick complicates Ash's case; eventually, VJ takes Luc abroad to Cyprus.
1 February–	Constable Corelli	Nick Cain	Supports Kat Chapman in investigating an arson case; subsequently uncovers CCTV footage implicating Dylan Carter in Robbo's hostage crisis.
2 February	Lactation Consultant	Gail Knight	Provides nursing support to Billie Ashford with her newborn daughter.
23 February–1 May	Ambulance Officer	Rob Baird	Responsible for transporting John Palmer and Zac MacGuire to hospital following medical emergencies.
27 February–8 May	Patrick Stanwood	Luke McKenzie	Introduced as Luke Ashford, presumed dead brother of Billie and Ash. Having faked his death due to depression after military service, Patrick struggles with PTSD that affects his interactions with Luc Patterson. He eventually forms a bond with Luc and agrees to seek treatment.
7 March–15 August	Lena Ascot	Felicity McKay	A university student involved in drug dealing at Salt nightclub; briefly works as a waitress before dismissal due to cocaine use. Engages in a brief romantic relationship with Brody Morgan who develops substance abuse issues influenced by her. Later attends rehabilitation alongside Brody.
7 March	Byron	Benjamin Winckle	Socially encourages Olivia Fraser Richards; experiences conflict with Hunter King over Olivia.
9 March ... [Subsequent entries continue with concise descriptions emphasizing roles relevant to legal, medical, or operational functions within the series' framework.] ...

External links

• Cast and characters on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Full cast and characters at the Internet Movie Database
• Ben Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Coco Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away site
• Ziggy Astoni profile on the Official AU Home and Away site