They were once people’s homes. Now locals are being asked what should happen to more than 70 hectares of flood buyback land across Lismore.
From today, Monday, 28 September, residents, businesses, and community groups can share their ideas for four key precincts across the city.
More than 600 flood-prone properties have been bought back through the Resilient Homes Program, funded by the Australian and NSW governments.
The land can never be used for housing again.
“These places mean a lot to our community,” said Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg.
“They were people’s homes and there are still families living alongside the buyback blocks.”
“We need to listen to those residents and consider what any changes will mean for their day-to-day lives.”
The precinct planning process will look at flood-compatible uses, from big new parklands and recreation hubs to cultural, environmental, and commercial spaces.
Any future use will have to weigh up flood risk, community benefit, environmental and cultural values, economic opportunities, costs, and ongoing maintenance, plus the impact on neighbouring residents and businesses.
“Over 70 hectares across four precincts is a huge canvas for Lismore’s future,” said Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin.
“Whether it becomes green space, community hubs, or spaces for local commerce, we want every resident to have a say in shaping spaces that bring new life, connection, and pride back into these areas.”
Mayor Krieg said different neighbourhoods would need different answers.
“Each part of Lismore is different,” Mayor Krieg said.
“What works in South Lismore might not suit North or East Lismore, which is why we want people to tell us what makes sense for their neighbourhood.”
The plans will build on consultation with the Lismore community since 2022.
The Board of Widjabul Wia-bal Gurrumbil Aboriginal Corporation, the Registered Native Title Body Corporate, is also being consulted throughout. That includes looking at opportunities to care for Country and support cultural continuation, stewardship, and land management.
“Recovery is about more than replacing what was lost,” said NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Kate Fitzgerald.
“It is about making decisions that reduce risk and help communities become safer and more resilient over the long term.”
Ms Fitzgerald said more than 500 new housing lots were also being progressed across three priority Resilient Lands Program sites in Lismore, offering housing in safer locations.
Locals can have their say through an online survey, drop-in sessions, and targeted workshops across the four precincts.
Consultation closes on Sunday, 1 November, with draft plans to be released for more feedback in early 2027.
“I encourage everyone to get involved, whether you have an idea for a single block or the whole neighbourhood,” Mayor Krieg said.
“Tell us what you’d like to see and what matters to you.”
To have your say, visit yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au/future-use-buyback-land-precinct-planning
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