The Northern Rivers is entering its most critical phase of home rebuilding, with the NSW Government issuing a region-wide call for licensed builders and trades to help homeowners upgrade, raise, rebuild or relocate properties damaged in the 2022 floods.
With a firm program deadline of 31 March 2027 looming, the focus has now shifted from administrative assessments to active construction sites. Builders, designers, engineers, architects, project managers and house relocation specialists are urgently needed as the rebuild accelerates across the region.
A multi-year pipeline of work has now been confirmed, creating significant opportunities for the construction industry. To ensure trades and contractors are fully briefed on these opportunities and the technical requirements for resilient construction, the NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting a series of regional engagement sessions, including “Builder Brekkies” and information workshops.
These sessions aim to connect local trades with the program team and outline how to access available work under the Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program (RHP).
Following the devastating 2022 floods, the Australian and NSW Governments established the Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program to reduce long-term flood risk across seven local government areas: Lismore, Ballina, Byron Bay, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and Tweed Heads.
Backed by $880 million in joint NSW and Australian Government funding, the program supports voluntary home buybacks and resilience measures including house raising, retrofitting, rebuilding and relocation. Approximately 600 homes are slated for resilient measures — such as raising, retrofitting or rebuilding — in this final phase.
Grants of up to $100,000 are available for home raising, rebuilding or relocation, while retrofits attract up to $50,000 for flood-resilient materials and modifications. A co-contribution bonus will match homeowner contributions dollar-for-dollar, potentially doubling total project value to $200,000 for raising or rebuilding projects, or $100,000 for retrofits. Homeowners can also access an additional $20,000 grant for planning, design and development application costs.
In parallel, the NSW Reconstruction Authority is working with delivery partners to unlock land for hundreds of new homes across the region in 2026, with thousands more planned in future years. Housing options will range from one- and two-bedroom homes and terraces to larger three- and four-bedroom family dwellings. Private developments are also gaining momentum across the Northern Rivers, further strengthening the long-term pipeline of work.
Consultation is also planned throughout 2026 to determine the future use of vacant buyback land, particularly in Lismore, South Murwillumbah, Kyogle and Richmond Valley.
Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the region had reached a pivotal moment.
“We have reached a critical juncture in the Northern Rivers rebuild. Plans are being finalised, funding is in place and now we need boots on the ground to turn these designs into resilient homes.”
“This is a massive call to arms for our local construction industry. We have a clear window between now and March 2027 to complete these vital works.
“By stepping up now, our builders and trades aren’t just completing a job—they are laying the foundations for a stronger, more connected Northern Rivers, bringing our neighbors home and building a legacy that will define our towns for decades to come.”
NSW Reconstruction Authority Northern Rivers Adaptation Executive Director Kristie Clarke said the scale of the rebuild was unprecedented.
“The scale of work now underway across the Northern Rivers is unprecedented, and we need skilled builders and construction specialists to help us deliver it.
“This is about working alongside communities to rebuild homes that are safer, stronger and more resilient, while meeting ambitious timeframes and supporting the long-term recovery of the region.”
Resilient Measures information sessions will be held on 5 March in Tweed (Murwillumbah Community Centre), 11 March in Byron (Mullumbimby Civic Hall), 17 March in Clarence Valley (Maclean Bowling Club) and 18 March in Richmond Valley (Woodburn Community Building).
RHP Expos are scheduled for 29 April at Lismore Workers Club and 13 May at Murwillumbah Civic Centre, while Builder Brekkies will take place across Lismore, Murwillumbah, Mullumbimby, Casino and Grafton between February and June.
For more information visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/events
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