Lismore residents are being asked to share their vision for four key precincts across the local government area as part of a plan to transform 70 hectares of the city’s flood buyback land into community space.
With more than 600 flood-prone properties bought back through the Australian and NSW Government-funded Resilient Homes Program (RHP), the land will be repurposed to keep the community safe and support local outcomes like playing fields and public open space.
NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO, Kate Fitzgerald said the precinct planning process will unlock practical, flood-compatible land uses that deliver lasting community value.
“Recovery is about more than replacing what was lost. It is about making decisions that reduce risk and help communities become safer and more resilient over the long term,” said Ms Fitzgerald.
“More than 600 properties across Lismore have been bought back through the Resilient Homes Program, fundamentally changing parts of the city and creating more than 70 hectares of land that can no longer be used for housing.
“At the same time, we are progressing more than 500 new housing lots across three priority Resilient Lands Program sites in Lismore, providing new opportunities for housing in safer locations.
“The precinct planning process is another important step in this work. It brings together community feedback, technical evidence and new ideas to guide how this land can make a lasting contribution to Lismore’s future.”
The land cannot be used for housing, and any future use will strictly consider flood risk, community benefit, environmental and cultural values, economic opportunities, costs, and ongoing maintenance, as well as impacts on neighbouring residents and businesses.
“These places mean a lot to our community. 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,” said Lismore City Council Mayor, Steve Krieg.
“Each part of Lismore is different. 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. People have already shared plenty of ideas since the floods and we’ll build on that feedback as we work with the NSW Reconstruction Authority to develop the plans.
“This is an important moment for Lismore as we move from recovery to planning for our long-term future. How we reshape this land will help define our neighbourhoods for generations to come, and our community needs to be part of those decisions. I encourage everyone to get involved, whether you have an idea for a single block or the whole neighbourhood. Tell us what you’d like to see and what matters to you.”
The precinct plans will build on extensive consultation already undertaken with the Lismore community since 2022, with previous feedback helping provide a foundation for the next stage of planning.
“The future use of this land is a chance for our community to tell its story. Its next chapter must be written by the people who live here. While we have moved families to safer ground, we are deeply mindful of what these spaces represent,” said Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin.
“Over 70 hectares across four precincts is a huge canvas for Lismore’s future. 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.
“I urge everyone across Lismore to share your ideas and tell us what you want to see. This is our opportunity to create something enduring, positive, and reflective of our community’s strength and spirit.”
The Government has partnered with the Widjabul Wia-bal people to shape the future of the land. As part of this commitment, engagement has commenced with the Board of the Widjabul Wia-bal Gurrumbil Aboriginal Corporation (Registered Native Title Body Corporate). It says this collaboration will continue throughout the development of the precinct plans to ensure their knowledge, priorities and aspirations directly guide future land uses.
The Government says feedback will be considered alongside technical studies, environmental considerations, and broader planning priorities to develop the draft precinct plans.
Consultation is open until 1 November, with draft plans to be released for further community feedback in early 2027.
The community can now help shape the plans by completing an online survey, attending drop-in sessions, and participating in targeted workshops across the four precincts. To find out more visit yoursay.lismore.nsw.gov.au/future-use-buyback-land-precinct-planning.
