The NSW Government has announced its aim to release a further 42 homes for sale across the Northern Rivers by Christmas, following an overwhelming community response to the first four home relocation auctions.
To date, 83 flood-affected properties, bought by the Government through the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, have been offered for sale to be relocated to flood-free land by the new owner.
The ambitious Christmas target is part of the commitment to reuse and relocate as many flood-affected homes as possible, said Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin.
“We have set an ambitious target for relocation and reuse to ensure we are leading the way in ensuring we are creating the vibrant neighbourhoods and opportunities our community need,” said Minister Saffin.
“It’s giving many people, particularly those with young families, a chance at something affordable in the housing market in one of the best places to live.
“With these tin and timber homes we are delivering the hopes and dreams of a generation to home their own while ensuring the unique character of this region lives on.”
The Minister said most buyers to date have been locals, with purchase prices ranging from $347 to $200,000.
This next release includes 12 buyback homes from South and North Lismore and central Lismore going to auction at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah from 5:30pm on October 7. An additional 22 buyback homes are planned to go to auction in November.
There is no reserve price on the houses, meaning bidding can start and end at $1. Successful bidders have 12 months to relocate the houses to flood-free land.
“The Resilient Homes Program is one of the most ambitious initiatives undertaken after a disaster in Australia,” said NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director Northern Rivers Adaptation Division, Kristie Clarke.
“Through the buyback process, we’re removing homes from the floodplain and creating new opportunities by making some of these available for relocation.”
More details on the homes available can be found at: https://www.prd.com.au/northernrivers/relocation-homes/.
