Lismore’s REDInc opens new flood-resilient hub to secure vital disability services

A grassroots not-for-profit organisation providing disability services to the residents of Northern NSW has opened at a new site in the centre of Lismore, thanks to funding as part of the NSW Government’s Northern Rivers Towns and Villages Resilient Business Activation Program.

The NSW Government said in a media release, they supported the project with $330,000 through the Towns and Villages Resilient Business Activation Program.

‘Combined with REDinc’s own investment of $99,000, this hub stands as a monument to the resilience and determination of the Lismore community’.

‘New flood‑resilient features include water‑resistant gyprock wall panels, concrete flooring that can be easily washed down, and aluminium framing and edging to reduce damage and recovery time.

‘Flood risk was the key consideration in decisions about fixtures and fittings. The kitchen has also been designed so that all equipment can be wheeled out if necessary.

‘The renovations were designed to ensure that if flooding occurs again, the process of returning to the building will be significantly quicker than after the 2022 flood.

‘The opening of the new hub will enable REDinc to continue to deliver a wide range of practical, person-centred supports for people with disabilities.

‘These supports, which are designed to strengthen independence and participation in everyday life, include driver mentoring and training, home budgeting and money management, employment pathways and workplace skills, creative and social programs, daily living skills development, and community participation supports.

‘REDinc was one of 15 small-to-medium sized businesses, and three local councils, in the Northern Rivers which received grants worth more than $9.2 million, under the Towns and Villages Resilient Business Activation Program’.