The NSW government is bringing back flood buyback auctions for 2026. Most buyers so far have been locals, with house sale prices ranging from $1 to $200,000, attracting attention nationwide.
To date, 130 flood-affected properties, bought by the government through the Resilient Homes Program, have been offered for sale to be relocated to flood-free land by the new owner.
The next releases include 10 buyback homes from South and East Lismore and central Lismore, going to auction at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah from 5:30pm on Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
Another auction has been scheduled for Murwillumbah on March 17 for a further 10 properties in Murwillumbah, Bray Park and Burringbar.
There’s no reserve price on these houses, meaning bidding can start and end at $1.
Second life for beautiful homes
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, ‘We aren’t just auctioning houses; we are saving the ‘tin and timber’ soul of the Northern Rivers.
‘These auctions give local families –especially those starting out – a rare, affordable shot at home ownership while ensuring our region’s unique character is preserved for the future.
‘It’s about moving our history to higher ground and giving these beautiful homes a second life in a safer place.’
NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Northern Rivers Adaptation Division Kristie Clarke said, ‘The Resilient Homes Program is one of the most innovative initiatives undertaken after a disaster in Australia.
‘Through the buyback process, we’re removing homes from the floodplain and creating new opportunities for local families by making some of these available for relocation.’
Destination site must be ready
To ensure a smooth transition to safer ground, this year’s program introduces a new requirement: successful bidders must have a destination site ready at the time of purchase. This change is designed to help new homeowners hit the ground running, with all houses required to be moved by the end of 2026.
The NSW Reconstruction Authority says it’s committed to supporting buyers through every step of this journey. A dedicated Relocation Concierge service has been established to provide personalised guidance, alongside a suite of online resources to help navigate the logistics of moving and restumping these unique homes.
More details on the homes available through the Lismore auctions can be found at: https://www.walmurray.com.au/pages/real-estate/ra-auction-houses.
A guide on the house relocation process can be found at: https://youtu.be/MUMZgI4dabY.
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