The NSW Government will reinstate one of Australia’s most distinctive housing sale programs in 2026, with the return of its flood buyback auctions.
To date, 130 flood-affected properties purchased by the NSW Government under the Resilient Homes Program have been offered for sale for relocation to flood-free land by new owners.
Most buyers have been local, with sale prices ranging from $1 to $200,000 drawing national attention.
The next release will see 10 buyback homes from South Lismore, East Lismore, and central Lismore auctioned at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah from 5.30pm on Tuesday, 3 March 2026.
A further auction is scheduled for Murwillumbah on 17 March, featuring another 10 properties across Murwillumbah, Bray Park, and Burringbar.
There is no reserve price on the homes, meaning bidding can start – and end – at $1, positioning the program among the most accessible housing opportunities in Australia.
To support relocation to safer areas, this year’s program introduces a new requirement: successful bidders must have a confirmed destination site at the time of purchase. The change is intended to streamline the process, with all homes required to be relocated by the end of 2026.
The NSW Reconstruction Authority will support buyers throughout the process. A dedicated Relocation Concierge service has been established to provide personalised guidance, supported by online resources, to assist with the logistics of moving and restumping the homes.
The Resilient Homes Program, described as Australia’s largest climate adaptation initiative, aims to create safer communities by removing homes from high-risk floodplains and relocating them to higher ground.
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said they aren’t just auctioning houses, they’re 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.”
Further details on homes available through the Lismore auctions are available at: https://www.walmurray.com.au/pages/real-estate/ra-auction-houses
A guide to the house relocation process is available at: https://youtu.be/MUMZgI4dabY
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