More than 500 blocks of land purchased through the NSW Government’s flood buyback program in Lismore will soon be the focus of a new community-led planning process to decide how the sites will be used in the future.
The Minns Labor Government and Lismore City Council have partnered to plan the future of around 50 hectares of land that was voluntarily acquired after the 2022 floods. The land, once among the most flood-prone in the city, can no longer be used for housing and will now be reimagined through community consultation.
Minister for Recovery and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the project marks a major step in Lismore’s long-term recovery. “The Lismore Precinct Plan is the start of another important journey for Lismore – one more positive step towards a safer and more resilient future,” Ms Saffin said.
“The Home Buyback Program has given certainty to hundreds of families and reduced the risk of repeat flooding impacts on residents in some of the most vulnerable areas of Lismore. Now we have an opportunity to reimagine this land, creating beautiful neighbourhoods that build community connectiveness and resilience as well as support and grow the local economy,” she said.
“Planning for the future use of this land must be carefully and sensitively managed, and the voices of the whole community – those who live, work and own businesses there – will be central to the process.”
The first precinct plan, Lismore Centre, will begin development in early 2026, followed by North, South and East Lismore. Expressions of interest for planners, engineers and other experts will open soon, with opportunities for community members to provide feedback through a series of in-person and online sessions throughout 2026.
NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Graham Kennett said the next stage is about building a shared vision for the future. “The buyback program has provided long-term security for more than 500 Lismore households impacted by the 2022 floods. This next stage is about working together with the community to create a shared vision for land that can no longer be residential but can still deliver lasting benefits for the city,” Mr Kennett said.
“This is about building a safer, more resilient Lismore for the long term. By carefully planning each precinct and involving the community, we can create spaces that enhance connectivity, provide amenity and support local economic activity,” he said.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the initiative is an important milestone in the city’s recovery. “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,” Cr Krieg said.
“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. It’s about setting Lismore up for the future as a great place to work, invest and raise a family.”
More information about the planning process and future consultation opportunities is available at nsw.gov.au/future-buyback-land-use.
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