The Northern Rivers region is about to see the most significant post-flood housing development since the devastating 2022 disaster, with 72 hectares of flood-free land in East Lismore now secured to unlock more than 400 new homes.
In a move described as “a key part of the recovery” by government leaders, the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) and Landcom have finalised the purchase of land from Southern Cross University — the first major acquisition under the $100 million Resilient Lands Program.
The development will directly support displaced families still reeling from the 2022 floods and forms part of a broader $880 million Resilient Homes Program, which remains the largest flood response of its kind in Australian history.
Fast-tracking flood-free futures
“This is about helping people move off the floodplain and into their forever homes,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully.
With over 400 housing lots to be created, including relocation sites for flood-affected homes, the development offers a practical, long-term solution to the housing crisis still gripping Lismore and the wider Northern Rivers.
Scully added: “Importantly, participants of the Resilient Homes Program will be given first access to secure new land and housing under the project.”
That early-access clause means flood-impacted residents won’t be priced out of safety — a critical concern in a region where housing availability has remained tight and prices have surged post-disaster.
The development breakdown
The project will be led by Landcom, with a $60 million investment to develop the site. The Reconstruction Authority has committed an additional $15 million for the land purchase and infrastructure, which includes roads, sewerage, electricity, and water connections.
Key features of the development include:
- Over 400 residential lots of varying sizes
- Priority access for Resilient Homes Program participants
- Land for relocation of flood-affected homes
- A new Build to Rent precinct delivering 50 apartments, with at least 20% allocated as affordable housing
- Fast-tracked masterplanning in partnership with Lismore City Council
The aim is not just to build homes, but to establish a resilient new community — one close to the city centre, yet safe from future disasters.
Southern Cross University steps up
The land, once part of Southern Cross University’s East Lismore campus, has been described as a “generous and crucial contribution” to the city’s future.
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin thanked the university for “working with us to unlock this significant tract of land,” noting the new housing will be “outside the probable maximum flood level in Lismore.”
“This development allows us to build a safe and resilient community close to home and in easy reach of the town centre,” Saffin said.
The importance of location cannot be overstated — rebuilding lives in proximity to family, schools, work, and community infrastructure is key to sustainable recovery.
More than a rebuild — a reset
The housing crisis in the Northern Rivers predates the floods, but the disaster exposed its most urgent cracks. Thousands of families were left without a home, and rental availability plummeted.
For RA CEO Mal Lanyon, this isn’t just about repairing what was lost — it’s about reshaping the future.
“This development is a key component of the Resilient Lands Strategy,” he said. “The purchase of this land is a demonstration of the work to secure a brighter future for Lismore.”
“The RA and Landcom will focus on fast-tracking the project and get groundwork underway,” Lanyon confirmed, signalling a clear intent to move quickly.
From short-term response to long-term change
While many communities remain in temporary accommodation or limbo, this project is part of a broader transformation. The Resilient Lands Program is currently working with councils and government agencies across the Northern Rivers to identify and unlock land for up to 4300 flood-safe homes.
Other key development sites are in the pipeline for Goonellabah, North Lismore, Mullumbimby, and Murwillumbah.
What makes this approach stand out is its emphasis on future-proofing — not just rebuilding homes, but delivering them in a way that is sustainable, inclusive, and mindful of regional resilience.
Landcom CEO Alexander Wendler echoed that sentiment:
“Landcom is making homes happen. This project will unlock housing to suit a range of needs with diverse, sustainable and affordable options.”
TGB Take: Why this matters
Too often, government-led recovery efforts are long on promises and short on delivery. But this milestone in Lismore — with land secured, funding committed, and collaboration across state, local and education sectors — is a strong signal that meaningful progress is happening.
It’s also a reminder of what’s possible when resilience isn’t just a buzzword, but a guiding principle for urban planning.
The homes that rise here won’t just provide shelter. They will provide peace of mind.
For the builders involved, this is an opportunity to help shape a new standard for disaster recovery — one rooted in community, safety, and future readiness.
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