The NSW Government has confirmed it will extend the $5 million Repair to Return program, which successfully completed property repair and plumbing works in 359 flood-damaged homes across the Northern Rivers following the 2022 floods.
Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin says the program will now continue until June 2026. The program will extend with not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT contributing funds from the 2022 NSW Storms and Flooding Appeal. The new partnership aims to deliver up to 80 additional projects, supported by GIVIT funds to complete essential repair work across the region.
“The home repair work supported by local organisations and philanthropists has been one of the most heartening stories to emerge from the 2022 floods,” said Ms Saffin.
“Resilient Lismore has achieved significant outcomes in restoring homes and supporting households across the Northern Rivers, reflecting just how important their work is to our city and country.
“This new partnership between the NSW Reconstruction Authority, GIVIT and Resilient Lismore demonstrates the real impact that can be achieved when government, local community organisations and donors work together.”
Under the extended program, home owner-occupiers from the seven Local Government Areas across the Northern Rivers, still needing essential home repairs, can apply directly through Resilient Lismore’s website, in person at the Lismore Hub, or via referral from Recovery Support Services or the NSW Reconstruction Authority.
“We are pleased to enter this partnership with Resilient Lismore and the NSW Reconstruction Authority that will support people across the Northern Rivers who are living in homes that still require essential repairs,” said GIVIT Chief Executive Officer, Chris Staines.
“We are committed to working with communities for as long as it takes for them to recover.”
Once an application is received, Resilient Lismore will assess eligibility and coordinate the necessary repair works.
“The damage to housing across our region in 2022 was widespread and the necessary repair required has been challenging for folks who don’t have the financial capacity to manage it on their own,” said Resilient Lismore Executive Director, Elly Bird.
“We’re very grateful that we can continue this important work into 2026 with this additional support from GIVIT and from the NSW Reconstruction Authority, and we are thankful for the trust they have placed in us to continue to deliver this proven, on-the-ground approach to recovery.”
Learn more and apply online at https://resilientlismore.org.au/services/repair-to-return/ call 0455 218 692 or visit Resilient Lismore at 215 Keen Street, Lismore.
