Planning for the future use of flood-prone residential land in Lismore is underway, says the NSW government, with ‘Council and the community having a direct say in its future.’
In a media release by NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, she says more than 500 blocks of flood buyback properties, or 50 hectares of land in the city, can now be repurposed for other uses.
The statement reads, ‘Since devastating floods hit Lismore in 2022, the NSW Reconstruction Authority has voluntarily purchased properties at the highest risk of repeated flooding, protecting households and reducing long-term disaster risk’.
‘While the land can no longer be used for housing, a risk-based approach will be used to determine future uses that are compatible with flooding. Planning will consider how the space connects with surrounding areas, supports community needs and complements the CBD and local economy. Making sure that any future use will not increase flooding risks for neighbouring properties is also critical.
‘Lismore Centre will be the first precinct plan to be developed from early 2026, followed by North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore.
‘Expressions of interest for planners, engineers and other experts to work on this project will open soon.
‘Community members will be invited to have their say through a mix of in-person and online engagement opportunities throughout 2026. Details about the timing and format of consultation will be announced later this year’.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said, ‘The Lismore Precinct Plan is a crucial milestone in the recovery of our city and our community as we build in resilience to future weather events’.
‘Lismore City Council has partnered with the State Government to reimagine Lismore’s future following the buyback program and ensure the views of the community inform that vision’, he added.
For more information visit www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/resilient-homes-program/home-buybacks/future-buyback-land-use
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