Honouring generations of service and sacrifice on Anzac Day

On 25 April 1915, Australian and New Zealand soldiers huddled together silently in their row boats as they approached the beaches and hills of Gallipoli. Although they were young and afraid, they prepared to battle with an unseen enemy to protect the rest of us.

Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

111 years later, our Anzac spirit is as strong as ever.

Tomorrow at dawn, Australians and New Zealanders across the world will pause to honour those who have served and continue to serve in our defence forces during times of war, conflict, and humanitarian and peace operations.

In cities and towns across Australia and around the globe, we take the chance to recognise those who have and continue to wear our nation’s uniform, as well as their families who support them to serve.

We honour the memory of the 103,000 Australians who have given their life in our country’s name.

Approximately 1250 Australian Defence Force personnel are currently deployed on operations across Australia, the Indo-Pacific region and the globe. These deployments are an example of the continuing Anzac spirit while serving Australia’s national interests.

As Australians attend dawn services and take part in marches, we reflect on the tremendous sacrifices our current and former serving personnel and their families have and continue to make, so that our nation and its people can enjoy freedom and safety today.

Lest we forget. 

PM PREVARICATION ON A GAS EXPORT TAX IS ABOUT PROTECTING GAS INDUSTRY’S PROFITS, NOT OUR TRADING RELATIONSHIPS: GREENS

Reports this morning that the Prime Minister wants to continue to allow offshore gas corporations to get Australian gas for free and pay pocket change in PRRT, despite the extraordinary evidence presented to the senate inquiry, indicate that this Prime Minister is more concerned with keeping big corporations happy than he is with representing the interests of the Australian people.

On the matter of trading LNG for fuel:

Australian gas corporations can’t unilaterally pass on a gas export tax to customers in Asia. Approximately 80% of Australian gas is in long term contracts with prices tied to the global oil price, and 20% on a fluctuating spot market. Producers aren’t unilateral price setters and would overwhelmingly absorb the impact of an export levy in their healthy profit margins.

This has been established clearly by the Senate Inquiry, including evidence from Treasury, Ken Henry and gas companies themselves, who confirmed that the impact of a gas export tax would be felt by gas corporations, not our trading partners.

leader of the Australian Greens, Larissa Waters:

“The Prime Minister has a choice in this budget: deliver for the greedy gas corporations, or deliver for the people. If he has picked the wrong side today that will be his legacy,” said the Greens Leader on Friday.

“In the same week that his government announced the largest ever cut to a government program this century in the NDIS, a devastating cut that will result in at least 160,000 people losing critical supports, the Prime Minister is sending signals that he’s going to let the greedy gas corporations continue to make obscene war time profits. 

“This is corporate capture of the Australian government by the fossil fuel industry and we need to call it out. Under Labor, gas corporations are skipping out on their tax bill while everyone else suffers.

“On the matter of fuel security, the Prime Minister is reading from the script of the gas industry’s talking points and deceiving the public saying gas export taxes are a threat to our trading relationships. It’s simply not true, as the inquiry has heard from Treasury representatives this week. 

“This is nothing but the gas corporations fighting a haircut to their obscene profit margins, and the Prime Minister is falling for it.

“The Prime Minister is at a fork in the road. He can be brave and tax big corporations to support millions of Australians who are struggling to make ends meet, or he can be a mouthpiece for the gas industry. He can’t do both.”

Senator Steph Hodgins-May, Chair of the Select Committee on the taxation of gas resources: 

“Labor would rather slash 160,000 people from the NDIS than take on the gas giants and tax 10 gas export projects.

“Right now, more than $2 million is slipping through our fingers each and every hour because we refuse to put a minimum 25 per cent export tax on these global gas corporations.

“This week the gas cartel has rolled out the same tired scare campaign to protect their wartime profits while the major parties dutifully repeat their talking points .

“Premier Cook is head of a captured state auditioning for a future at the board table of Woodside, and the Prime Minister is taking his cues all the way to Canberra.

“A minimum 25 per cent gas export tax would raise at least $17 billion a year. That’s money to ease cost-of-living pressure, properly fund public services, and accelerate the transition to clean energy.”

AFL Appeal Board’s green light for homophobia

The AFL Appeal Board’s decision to substantially reduce a penalty imposed for a homophobic slur is appalling, and its statement of reasons makes it even worse, the Greens say.

“Homophobia should have no place in the AFL, or our society more broadly, and the AFL Commission needs to intervene and make that clear,” Greens LGBTIQA+  spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“Justifying homophobia and other forms of discriminatory language because football is a ‘hard game’ and ‘competitive’ is nothing short of disgraceful.” 

“This would not fly in any other workplace in the country and nor should it.”

“This ruling is a green light for homophobia and shows the AFL is not serious about fighting for equality.”

“The totally backwards logic that underpins this decision is a slap in the face to queer Australians, particularly those who have been made to feel unwelcome in Aussie rules.”

“The AFL as an organisation and as the custodian of a beloved sport, has fallen badly short here.”

“It should be taking a leadership role to stamp out homophobia, and that means no longer excusing homophobia.”

Balanced budget supports strong future for Newcastle

City of Newcastle is planning to deliver 274 projects and forecasting a fifth consecutive surplus as it releases its draft Budget for the upcoming financial year.

The 2026/27 Budget will invest $128.5 million in infrastructure to deliver everyday benefits for the community while also completing major projects like the Western Corridor road upgrades and the city’s largest ever children’s playground at Foreshore Park.

CEO Jeremy Bath said a commitment to responsible financial management means City of Newcastle can maintain its high level of service and infrastructure delivery.

“After many years of measured and deliberate decision-making, Council is well placed to continue investing sustainably in Newcastle’s future,” Mr Bath said. 

“City of Newcastle will spend $458 million in the coming financial year, delivering important services and infrastructure for the community, from Bar Beach to Beresfield and everywhere in between.

“We’re also forecasting a modest $1.4 million surplus, which means we can confidently commit to the high level of service delivery the community expects, while also being well positioned to weather unforeseen challenges.”

Councillors will vote to place the 2026/27 draft Budget and Operational Plan on public exhibition for community feedback at Tuesday night’s Council meeting.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe encouraged the community to have their say on the proposed plans.

“Community feedback plays an important role in everything we do, and inviting the community to have some input on the plan gives people an opportunity to influence what we’ll deliver across Newcastle,” Cr McCabe said.

“Taking the time to get familiar with the plan is a great way for people to learn more about what Council does to make Newcastle a better place, and to understand what is proposed for the next 12 months.”

Highlights of the Budget include:

  • $29 million on road renewal and road upgrades, including the Western Corridor Road Upgrades at Minmi Road and Longworth Avenue
  • $20.1 million on City and Civic venues, aquatics and recreation and sports improvements, including the Foreshore Park play space
  • $8.1 million on waste management and Summerhill Waste Management Centre
  • $7.6 million on footpath and pedestrian access and mobility projects including citywide renewal programs
  • $7.0 million on bridge renewal and upgrades including bridge replacement at Cottage Creek, Hunter Street
  • $6.4 million on city-wide stormwater upgrades, flood planning and management works, including Union Street, Cooks Hill stormwater drainage rehabilitation
  • $5.2 million coastal, city, and urban centres including Georgetown Local Centre and East End Hunter Street Mall
  • $4.3 million on coastal management including seawall repairs at Mitchell Street, Stockton
  • $4.3 million on cycleway projects including Broadmeadow to Hamilton East, Lambton Park to Croudace Street, and the trial Hunter Street cycleway
  • $3.4 million on climate action and sustainability initiatives including community energy projects, electric and low‑emission transport, and solar and battery initiatives
  • $3.4 million on street and park trees, bushland and watercourses, and Blackbutt Reserve
  • $1.9 million on affordable housing including the Rail Bridge Row Affordable Housing Project.

Mr Bath said the Budget strikes the right balance between renewing and maintaining existing infrastructure assets across Newcastle and delivering major projects that will have an impact on people’s lives.

“Our road renewal and upgrade program covers everything from improving hundreds of local streets to finishing Council’s largest ever road project at Wallsend,” Mr Bath said.

“There is continued investment in affordable housing, delivering active transport and improving changerooms, lighting and drainage at our sportsgrounds.

“We’re also focussing on the natural environment with more new street and park trees, bushland and watercourse improvements, coastal management actions and ongoing work at Blackbutt Reserve. 

“Our commitment to climate action includes a city-wide community battery project, repairing the Mitchell Street seawall, and city-wide stormwater upgrades as we help make Newcastle more resilient in years to come.

“We’re continuing to invest in services our community expects including reliable waste services, fast development application processing times and high-quality cultural spaces like our libraries, theatres and art gallery.”

Executive Manager Finance & Property and Acting Chief Financial Officer Scott Moore said City of Newcastle is maintaining its status as the Hunter’s most financially sustainable council.

“We have delivered nine budget surpluses in the past 12 years, and this Budget sets us up to do so once again,” Mr Moore said.

“It has been developed so we can continue to meet the changing needs and expectations of our community, while ensuring we’re financially healthy now and into the future.

“It is incumbent on City of Newcastle to spend ratepayer money responsibly, and savvy long-term financial planning across more than a decade has us well-placed to continue delivering a high level of service for the community while ensuring we give them the best value for money we can.”

World class observatory opens in Mallanganee

The Northern Rivers has a new star in its tourism crown with the official opening of the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout. 

Situated on the crest of the Richmond Range, the observatory is set to transform the region into a premier destination for ‘dark sky’ tourism.

Positioned on the precise latitude where the centre of the Milky Way crosses directly overhead daily, the site offers a celestial experience unlike any other on Earth.

Designed by award-winning firm Terrior, the facility features a striking armillary-like sphere of galvanised steel and pre-cast concrete. The design’s global significance was recently recognised when it was shortlisted at the World Architecture Festival.

The $3.33 million project was made possible through a $2.067 million investment from the NSW Government’s Regional Tourism Activation Fund, with Kyogle Council contributing $1.267 million.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“The Northern Rivers has a new star in its tourism crown with the official opening of the Mallanganee Observatory-Lookout. By investing in unique landmarks like this, the NSW Government is ensuring our regional communities have the world-class infrastructure they need to thrive.

“This project is a prime example of how we are delivering high-impact results for Western and Regional NSW.

“By leveraging Mallanganee’s unique celestial position, we are diversifying the local economy, and giving people a compelling reason to visit and stay in our vibrant regions.

“Whether you are a local or a visitor, standing beneath the centre of the Milky Way at this award-winning facility is a powerful reminder of the innovation and beauty found in our regional backyard.”

Minister for the North Coast and Member for Lismore said:

‘I backed this exciting project from the start, appreciating its destination tourism potential for the Kyogle community and the broader region.

“No other outlook in the world can claim this unique positioning, underneath the centre of the Milky Way – this truly puts Mallanganee on the global tourism map.

“The economic ripple effect will be felt by every small business from Mallanganee to Tenterfield.

“We are transforming this unique natural asset into a reliable economic engine – one that drives year-round foot traffic and sustains permanent local employment for years to come.”

Kyogle Mayor Danielle Mulholland OAM said:  

“From the seed of an idea, came a project that will deliver benefits to not only Mallanganee but the surrounding villages.

“There are some avid astronomers across Australia and the Mallanganee Observatory is expertly designed to take advantage of the numerous constellations in the night sky.

“As Council starts to digitise attractions across the Council area, highlighting places of interest and taking advantage of the visitor economy, we expect to see an increase in tourism.

“This is a great investment by the State Government and Kyogle Council into the village of Mallanganee and its future.”

$50 million relief for community services sector as Minns Labor Government reduces levy

The Minns Labor Government is delivering immediate financial relief to thousands of organisations across the community services sector, by reducing the levy for the Community Services Portable Long Service Leave Scheme.

The Government will reduce the levy by almost 25% in the 2025-2026 financial year.

This will save the sector approximately $50 million for the current financial year.

The reduction will provide vital budget relief to community service organisations, including not-for-profit disability providers and social service organisations, enabling them to redirect resources to meet rising operational costs such as fuel and other external pressures.

Based on projections this will save a small organisation with 10 employees up to $2477.72 in the 2025-2026 financial year and a medium sized organisation with 100 employees up to $16,927.

The first levy payment will be able to be paid to the Long Service Leave Corporation later this month from 29 April, with a final due date of 31 May.

The Minns Labor Government delivered the Portable Long Service Leave Scheme to support 250,000 community service workers. which is estimated to employ one in every 12 women working in NSW.

The new scheme ensures these workers have access to their long service regardless of which employer they work for within the sector.

In a sector where short-term contracts are common, workers rarely spend enough time in the same workplace to access their long service leave. These workers currently lose all accrued long service leave when they change employers.

The Government’s reform will encourage retention in the sector by reducing burnout and fatigue for our dedicated community sector workers, as well as saving organisations on training and recruiting costs.

The portable long service scheme was the subject of extensive consultation with employers, peak organisations, and workers. The Government acknowledges the significant work of the Australian Services Union, National Disability Services (NDS), NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS), and other non-government sector organisations in designing this scheme.

Through supporting workforce stability, recruitment and retention, the roll-out of the community services sector scheme is helping to build a better NSW by delivering more reliable services across NSW, benefiting workers, employers and communities across the state.

The levy relief has been determined in accordance with actuarial advice to ensure there is sufficient funding to meet workers’ future leave entitlements and ensure the long-term viability of the scheme.

The Government will also monitor and review the levy settings over the first two years of the scheme with the scheme’s long-term viability being the key priority.

Minister for Industrial Relations and Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:

“The Minns Labor Government has listened closely to the community services sector and understands the financial pressures many organisations are facing at present which is why we have opted to give the sector financial relief in this tough economic climate.

“The new levy setting aims to safeguard viability and the integrity of the scheme, and a sustainable levy model ensures we can deliver a strong reliable system for our community carers.

“The community services sector delivers essential services to some of the most vulnerable in our community and the key to making those services work is the people who deliver them.

“We’ve listened to the workers in this sector including the women who make up 75% of this workforce and have been calling for this reform to help minimise burnout and fatigue.

“This approach also tackles recruitment and retention issues by incentivising workers to stay in the industry with the confidence that their long service entitlements move with them from job to job.”

Minister for Families and Communities and Disability Inclusion, Kate Washington said:

“Our government understands the financial pressure facing community services right now. This decision will relieve some of that pressure, without compromising the future of workers’ leave entitlements.

“A stronger and more stable workforce is better placed to deliver high-quality supports within our communities. We are grateful for the Australian Services Union, National Disability Services and the NSW Council of Social Services’ advocacy and collaboration.”

Executive Director of the NSW Long Service Corporation Lauren Nagal said:

“This phased levy approach provides immediate relief to employers while safeguarding the integrity and viability of the scheme. Importantly, it will not impact workers’ entitlements, including how service accrues or the value of leave they are entitled to claim.

“Our teams will continuously monitor and review the levy settings over the first two years to ensure employers are meeting their obligations and to support a smooth transition into the Scheme.”

Chief Executive Officer, NSW Council of Social Service Cara Varian said:

“With the NSW social service sector under immense pressure, this temporary reduction in the levy provides desperately needed relief. Some front-line organisations are on the brink of closing their doors. In the face of fuel security uncertainty, this announcement will help ensure front-line organisations can continue to support people and families most in need across NSW”.

State Manager, National Disability Services, Lowri Williams said:

“National Disability Services (NDS) welcomes the NSW Government decision to temporarily reduce the portable long service leave levy for community service employers, including disability service providers. This is an important and timely step that recognises the financial pressure facing disability service providers while maintaining access to portable long service leave entitlements for workers.”

“NDS strongly supports a secure, valued workforce. This temporary levy reduction is a practical response to the real financial pressure facing disability providers and ensure continuity of supports to people with disability across the state,” said Lowri Williams, State Manager NSW. “It protects worker entitlements while giving organisations the breathing space they need to keep delivering quality supports.”

“The original levy setting would have created an immediate and unsustainable cost shock for many providers already operating under tight margins. The temporary reduction acknowledges these realities and helps protect service continuity for people with disability and communities across NSW.”

“NDS thanks the NSW Government, particularly Minister Cotsis and her team, for their ongoing engagement with the sector and for progressing this transitional arrangement through government”.

ASU NSW Secretary, Angus McFarland said:

“Portable long service leave will recognise the service of thousands of dedicated community sector workers to their industry and the people of NSW that they support.

“This reform, long campaigned for by workers, will bring NSW into line with ACT, Victoria and Queensland who already have schemes in place for this sector for many years.

“As the union for community services we have always advocated for the levy contributions to be as low as possible for employers while also ensuring both sustainability of the scheme and protection of worker entitlements into the future”.

“While long service leave legislation has applied to this industry for decades, workers can rarely access it due to short term contracting arrangements. This change will benefit thousands of workers across the community and provide them with better, and earlier access to this important leave entitlement”.

Interaction CEO Brett Johnston said:

“I would like to thank the Government and in particular, Minister Cotsis for listening to providers within the Disability sector and working with us to address our concerns about the Portable Long Service Leave Scheme levy.

“The reduction in the levy will provide some welcome relief at a time when providers are experiencing ongoing financial hardship. This will enable us to continue to provide the highest quality services to our participants and retain learning and development opportunities for our staff.

“I look forward to continued collaboration regarding this important initiative.”

More than 15,000 new homes for Punchbowl and Wiley Park

The Minns Labor Government has together with the City of Canterbury-Bankstown unlocked more than 15,000 new homes after finalising planning controls in Punchbowl and Wiley Park Transport Oriented Development (TOD) precincts.

The new controls enable more housing on the doorstep of new Sydney Metro stations at Punchbowl and Wiley Park, which are set to open later this year.

Key features of the precinct plan include:

  • revitalisation of Punchbowl and Wiley Park’s main streets, with new homes, shops and services
  • new and improved public open spaces and pedestrian links
  • up to 3 per cent affordable housing for developments of more than 200 sqm
  • building heights between 6 and 18 storeys
  • floor space ratios between 0.7:11 to 5.5:1

A strong pipeline of development is underway across the Transport Oriented Development precincts with almost 19,000 homes the planning system including more than 1700 already approved.  

The Minns Labor Government introduced the TOD program in May 2024 to deliver more affordable, well-designed, and well-located homes near train and metro stations across NSW.

The program is expected to unlock more than 170,000 new homes over the next 15 years.

For more information about the Transport Oriented Development program, visit NSW Planning.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“This is a great outcome which will enable thousands of new homes close to transport, jobs and services, where people want to live.

“The Minns Labor Government’s Transport Oriented Development program is going full steam ahead to deliver more homes from the Illawarra to the Hunter with almost 19,000 homes already in the planning pipeline including more than 1700 which have already been approved.

“It’s great to see councils such as City of Canterbury Bankstown taking up the challenge of planning for the homes we need and delivering a plan that goes above and beyond for the community.”

Member for Bankstown Jihad Dib said:

“We are investing in new infrastructure including the Metro and Bankstown Hospital, as well as planning for new homes near jobs, services and improved public transport, to create a future that will allow our community to thrive.

Importantly, this plan will increase access to affordable housing, create opportunities for more open space and support local growth in a way that keeps people connected. It’s about ensuring more families have the opportunity to live close to everything they need, in a place they are proud to call home.”

Member for Canterbury Sophie Cotsis said:

“The inner south west is one of the fastest growing areas in NSW which is why the Minns Labor Government has invested in the Metro and the Canterbury Hospital and is now unlocking 15,000 homes.

“This gives people the opportunity to live close to jobs, family and community and more people will now call this vibrant area home.”

Clear path set out for changes to Lake Conjola opening rules

The NSW Government has formally advised Shoalhaven City Council of the steps required if it wishes to change the trigger level for opening Lake Conjola to the ocean.

Council currently has a Crown land licence to cut a channel to the ocean to reduce flood risk when lake water levels reach 1.2 metres AHD (Australian Height Datum) or where the level exceeds 1.0 meters AHD and heavy rainfall is forecast.

Council also has the right to open the channel as emergency works under section 191 of the Local Government Act 1993 should it consider works as necessary and effective to mitigate a flood emergency.

However, Council has requested an exemption to open the lake at 1.02 metres AHD in the absence of imminent heavy rainfall. The NSW Government is ready to assess any revised proposal

If Council wants to change when the lake is opened, it is able to do so but must first revise its own Entrance Management Policy, and undertake a Review of Environmental Factors, before applying for a licence amendment.

Undertaking proper environmental assessments before opening lakes to the ocean is critical to avoid environmental damage and protect against flooding.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The NSW Government stands ready to assess any revised proposal Council brings forward.

“However, proper planning processes must be followed before the I can grant an amendment to the existing licence conditions.

“That’s why Crown Lands has advised Council that the correct pathway is to revise its Entrance Management Policy, undertake the required environmental assessment, and then apply for a licence amendment.”

Member for South Coast Liza Butler said:

“Community safety remains the priority and Shoalhaven City Council has emergency powers under the Local Government Act to open the lake to the ocean if there is an imminent flood risk.

“At the same time, outside emergency conditions, decisions about opening Lake Conjola need to be based on science, safety and environmental responsibility, so I encourage Council to undertake the required steps advised by Crown Lands to formally amend its licence.”

Applications open to celebrate NSW carers

The Minns Labor Government is supporting the extraordinary contribution of carers across the state with applications now open for the NSW National Carers Week Grants program.

Not-for-profit organisations and local councils can apply for a share of $220,000 in grant funding to support initiatives with a focus on bringing carers together, strengthening social connection and increasing recognition of the vital role carers play.

Last year, more than 7,800 carers attended events and activities funded through NSW National Carers Week grants across 71 LGAs.

This year, grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 will support initiatives run around National Carers Week from 11 October to 17 October 2026.

Examples of suitable initiatives include social gatherings, wellbeing or cultural events, workshops and creative activities designed in partnership with carers and tailored to local needs.

Applications from organisations working with carers from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, including Aboriginal carers, culturally and linguistically diverse carers, LGBTQIA+ carers, young carers, older carers and carers in regional and rural communities.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday 25 May 2026 with successful applicants to be announced in July.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/nsw-national-carers-week-grants-2026

Grant enquiries can be directed to the Department of Communities and Justice at carerstr@dcj.nsw.gov.au

Minister with responsibility for carers Jodie Harrison said:

“New South Wales is home to more than 958,000 carers who work hard providing support to their friend or loved one with a disability, serious illness or frailty.

“Carers deserve to feel valued for the essential work they do – and we know recognition leads to better mental health and wellbeing outcomes for them.

“These grants empower local organisations to work alongside carers to deliver meaningful activities that reflect what carers enjoy and need.”

Young families lead the charge at latest Lismore buyback homes auction

A new generation of homeowners is seizing the opportunity to secure a future in the Northern Rivers, with young families dominating the bidding at Lismore’s third flood buyback auction of the year.

Overnight, 35 registered bidders gathered at the Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah to compete for 10 homes from South, North, Central, and East Lismore, as well as Girards Hill. The event saw a 100% clearance rate, with homes selling for between $14,000 and $132,000, with a combined value of $400,000.

Since December 2024, 160 properties have been offered for sale through this innovative program, which has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s most accessible housing pathways.

Auction highlights included:

  • 213 Casino Street, South Lismore: $14,000
  • 7 Frank Street, South Lismore: $38,000
  • 14 Tweed Street, North Lismore: $40,000
  • 11 Coleman Street, Central Lismore: $132,000
  • 163 Ballina Road, East Lismore: $35,000
  • 1 Cathcart Street, Central Lismore: $41,000
  • 144 Dawson Street, Girards Hill:  $21,000
  • 153 Dawson Street, Girards Hill: $26,000
  • 219 Molesworth Street, East Lismore: $17,000
  • 99 Crown Street, South Lismore: $36,000

All homes sold were originally purchased by the NSW Reconstruction Authority under the buyback stream of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, a joint initiative of the NSW and Australian Governments. Successful bidders are required to relocate the dwellings to flood-safe land within 11 months.

All proceed from the home sales (after costs) are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more flood-affected residents.

To find out more about the Program go to nsw.gov.au/resilienthomesprogram

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“It is heartening to see so many young families securing these homes, providing them with a tangible pathway to homeownership while ensuring we keep our people and their energy right here in the Northern Rivers.

“This program is a uniquely Northern Rivers solution to housing that is setting a benchmark for the rest of Australia, proving that we can move residents out of harm’s way without losing the heart of our community.

“By choosing relocation over demolition, we are delivering a sustainable and innovative outcome that preserves our local housing stock and gives these buildings a second life in a safer location.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Acting Executive Director Adaptation and Resilience Division Jane Holden said:

“The Lismore auctions are part of our commitment to relocate and reuse buyback dwellings wherever possible, as we progress the removal of households from areas of high flood risk.

“These homes are part of the community’s shared history, and this program is about giving them a second life.

“It was encouraging to see bidders come well-prepared, engaging with relocation contractors and local councils in advance, with strong interest from young families and first-home buyers seeking a pathway to a safer future.”