Category: NSW News

The largest formwork arch in the Southern Hemisphere has been manoeuvred into place inside the Westmead metro station cavern.

The latest construction milestone comes as the Minns Labor Government today reveals a budget review of metro projects has exposed funding blackholes and delivery bungles of the former Liberal-National government.

At Westmead, an 82-hour operation saw work crews jack and winched the temporary arch into position with millimetres to spare.

Once the structure was in place, the team completed a 1,941-tonne concrete pour to create the cavern’s 2.5-metre-thick walls.

It took almost 12 months of careful planning to get the 21-metre arch in place.

Metro funding review

The Minns Labor Government is injecting an additional $2.4 billion into the Sydney Metro build, with a record investment of $60 billion delivering 25 new stations and three new lines.

Building three metros at the same time, instead of consecutively, has placed additional pressure on costs, and makes projects compete with each other.

The additional investment is also necessary after construction cost escalations, scope changes, design changes and significant cost pressures.

A major budget baseline review has found the Liberals failed to properly budget for metros, including:

• Tunnelling packages awarded to private contractors that blew out by $500 million but were not disclosed to the NSW public.
• $540 million of enabling works for over-station developments left unbudgeted despite being part of the original scope of works as announced.
• A redirection of $110 million from the Metro West budget to pay for the Eastern Creek Speedway that left an unfilled funding gap.

As a result of the new budget baseline, Metro West is now estimated to cost $27-$29 billion to complete to its 2032 timeframe.

The Metro Southwest conversion is now expected to cost $22-$23 billion while Western Sydney Airport Metro faces legal claims from its private sector delivery partner Parklife which may increase total costs by more than $1 billion.

The protracted dispute may push out the timeline for the opening date. When we have an announcement about an opening date we will update the public.

The Minns Labor Government is committed to delivering three metros and 25 new stations – on top of the 21 stations delivered by the former government.

Sydney Metro is Australia’s biggest public transport project, a program of more than $60 billion investment in new metro rail. These city-shaping Metro projects are vital infrastructure for Sydney but managing them responsibly within budgets and timeframes is essential to their viability.

After inheriting the largest debt ever handed from one government to another, we’re limited by what we can afford, what taxpayers can afford, but we will not privatise government assets.

Minister for Transport John Graham said:

“Delivering major projects must be backed up with real money, not false promises like the ones left behind by the former government.

“Our detailed review has identified cost overruns, budget blackholes and the infrastructure equivalent of robbing Peter to pay Paul – or in this case draining a rail construction budget to build a speedway.

“When it comes to delivering metros, any budget announced by the Liberals needs to be doubled to be believed. They must now explain how building five more metros at the same time as they have promised will not lead to the same result.

“Labor is delivering the largest ever metro program – 25 new stations across three new lines – all without more asset sales and privatisation.

Narrandera is on the path to safer and more reliable water after receiving $908,000 in funding from the Albanese Government to develop a full business case for a new state of the art water filtration plant.

This will outline the critical plans and preliminary design for the proposed Narrandera Water Treatment Plant project, paving the way for the construction phase, pending future funding and approval.

This project is a key priority for the region, aimed at securing a clean and sustainable water supply for residents and businesses for generations to come. It could help to diversify the water supply by reducing the reliance on groundwater and investigating river water options.

The current Narrandera water supply draws from bores drilled in the 1960s and is treated with chlorination to make it drinkable.

This system faces several challenges that compromise the quality and reliability of the town’s water supply, including high iron and manganese levels often exceeding Australian Drinking Water Supply Guidelines. Its current location on a floodplain also makes it susceptible to contamination events.

Narrandera Shire Council will match the Australian Government contribution, provided through the National Water Grid Fund, with the full business case anticipated to cost up to $1.82 million and take approximately 20 months to complete.

A full business case is a vital step in enabling governments to make informed water infrastructure investment decisions that are guided by the best evidence available, including a cost benefit analysis.

the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt:

“We’re pleased to be backing this project and supporting Narrandera’s planning for better access to more reliable water so the community can continue to thrive for generations to come.

“It’s great to see all levels of government working together to deliver lasting outcomes that will ensure regional communities have the essential services they deserve.”

the NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson:

“It is fantastic to see the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Fund putting nearly $1 million on the table to help strengthen water security for the 5,700 residents of Narrandera.

“By working closely with the Australian Government and local councils, we are delivering projects that are tailored to the needs of each community to give them access to safer, more secure water over the long term.”

the Mayor of Narrandera Shire Council Cr Neville Kschenka:

“This is great news for Narrandera and will allow us to move forward with the planning required to deliver a project that is essential for our long-term water security.

“A new water treatment plant would future-proof our water supply and be a vital asset for generations to come, and this funding puts us on the path to making it a reality.”

Patients in Southern NSW will be able to receive treatment from the comfort of their own home as part of the Minns Labor Government $31.4 million expansion of the Hospital in the Home program.

The Hospital in the Home program helps ease pressure on busy emergency departments and reduces a patient’s length of stay in hospital, all while ensuring people can continue to receive safe high-quality care from home.

From December 2025, Hospital in the Home is being rolled out across the Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Goulburn and Queanbeyan regions, helping Southern NSW patients to potentially avoid a visit to the ED and reduce long stays in hospital.

The program will be further strengthened by new wearable monitoring technology, helping clinicians to remotely track vital signs such as breathing rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels and heart rate in real time.

This innovative technology will support early intervention, with clinicians able to identify when a patient’s condition changes.

Snowy Monaro and Yass Valley communities will be part of a further expansion in the future.

Led by a dedicated medical officer and nurse practitioners, the new model will support the recovery of paediatric, palliative and aged care patients with a range of clinical conditions including cellulitis, pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis and urinary tract infections.

Expanding access to hospital care at home and leveraging new digital technology across Southern NSW, is another step forward to improving access to flexible, safe and appropriate health care across the state.

Treating more people from the comfort of their own home is part of a range of measures the Minns Labor Government is embracing to relieve pressure on our busy emergency departments including:

• $171.4 million to introduce three additional virtual care services helping 180,000 avoid a trip to the ED;
• $100 million in our urgent care services to become a mainstay and key instrument of the health system in providing a pathway to care outside of our hospitals preventing more than  114,000 ED presentations;
• $70 million to expand emergency department short stay units to improve patient flow to reduce ED wait times by nearly 80,000 hours;
• $15.1 million for an Ambulance Matrix that provides real time hospital data to enable paramedics to transport patients to emergency departments with greater capacity and reducing wait times;
• $53.9 million to improve patient flow and support discharge planning by identifying patients early on that are suitable to be discharged home with the appropriate supports in place; and
• empowering GPs to prescribe ADHD medication; and pharmacists to treat non-complex conditions.

This builds on the Minns Labor Government’s efforts to recruit more healthcare workers; and deliver more hospitals and beds, more quickly.

The Liberals planned to cut staff and refused to introduce ratios; failed to deliver enough hospitals and beds to meet the growing needs of the community; and tried to privatise acute public hospitals.

People in the community interested in finding out whether Hospital in the Home care may be suitable for them, are encouraged to speak with their general practitioner or treating health professional, who can help determine eligibility and coordinate a referral.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“This is exactly the kind of modern, patient-centred care we want to see across NSW. This model ensures people get the care they need sooner, and with better support, while also helping to reduce avoidable hospital admissions.

“The Hospital in the Home program gives people access to high-quality treatment without leaving the comfort and safety of their home, while easing pressure on our busy hospitals.

“By pairing clinical expertise with innovative technology, like the new remote monitoring tools, we are ensuring we can deliver safer, more flexible healthcare.”

Health and Regional Health, Dr Michael Holland:

“This expansion of Hospital in the Home is a major boost for patients and families across Southern NSW. It gives people access to safe, high-quality care without the stress and cost of travelling or spending extended periods in hospital.

“As someone who has cared for patients in our region for many years, I know how important it is to provide treatment that is close to home, culturally appropriate and flexible. Hospital in the Home allows patients to recover in comfort while still receiving the clinical oversight they need.

“This model strengthens our local health system. It reduces pressure on emergency departments, improves patient flow and supports better outcomes for paediatric, palliative and aged care patients. It is another example of the Minns Labor Government delivering practical, modern healthcare which improves solutions for regional communities.”

Margaret Bennett, Chief Executive, SNSWLHD:

“This model ensures patients in our district receive equitable, timely and high-quality care across Southern NSW.

“The continuous delivery of vital sign data means our clinicians can intervene earlier and more precisely, reducing avoidable admissions and keeping hospital beds available for more acute cases.”

Summa Stephens, Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Community and District Services at SNSWLHD:

“This model is all about giving people the right care, in the right place. Patients recover better when they’re in a familiar environment, and this service allows us to deliver hospital-level treatment while keeping them connected to home and family.

“We’ve been planning this model for two years, and we’re excited to roll out a district-wide HITH model and service that’s fit for purpose for Southern NSW. It’s medically led and supported by remote home monitoring.”

The Minns Labor Government has greenlit the final leg of Inland Rail in NSW – Phase 2 of the Narrabri to North Star section – clearing the tracks for faster freight, better connectivity, and a boost in regional jobs.

This milestone marks the final planning approval required in NSW for the Commonwealth funded 1,700km freight link from Melbourne to Brisbane, which will cut travel times to under 24 hours and ease pressure on Sydney’s metropolitan rail network.

Phase 2 will upgrade 15 kilometres of track between Moree and Camurra North. Running through the Moree Plains Shire, the new line is supported by the council and forms a key link in the Inland Rail network.

Once complete, the corridor will be capable of carrying up to 21 double-stacked trains and represents a major leap toward cleaner, more sustainable and efficient freight movement between regional NSW, domestic ports, and international markets.

This phase of the project is expected to create around 150 jobs during construction and 50 ongoing roles, delivering a strong boost to the local economy and unlocking long-term opportunities for regional communities.

This approval finalises the last of seven sections of Inland Rail in NSW. It builds on the momentum of Phase 1, which is approved to deliver 170 kilometres of upgraded track between Narrabri and North Star.

The project’s approval includes conditions to address issues such as flooding, biodiversity, social impacts, traffic, and Aboriginal cultural heritage in line with assessment standards.

For more information visit https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/assess-and-regulate/state-significant-projects/inland-rail/narrabri-to-north-star

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“The Inland Rail program is another step closer to reality with the planning approval of this important section of the track.”

“This is more than just laying down steel – it’s laying the groundwork for regional growth, unlocking new opportunities in logistics, agriculture, and trade.”

“By shifting freight from road to rail, we’re cutting emissions and making our road network safer.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“This is the moment regional NSW has been waiting for. The project can move from planning to delivery – unlocking jobs, investment and a faster, smarter freight pathway across the state.

“It’s a game-changer for connectivity from paddock to port.

“The independent Schott Review laid bare the scale of the problems we inherited: years of mismanagement, cost blowouts and unrealistic timelines under the former Liberal and National Governments. Today’s approval shows that the Minns Labor Government is doing the hard work to fix the mess and get this project back on track.”

Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“The Minns Government is focused on delivering for rural and regional communities and this final stage of the Inland Rail being greenlit demonstrates our ability to get things done.

“The project will create more jobs and open up new opportunities for investment in the bush by delivering stronger connections between local producers and their national and international markets.”

The Minns Labor Government is taking the next step toward delivering the replacement pedestrian bridge at Moonee Beach, appointing local Coffs Harbour firm BK Engineering Consulting Solutions to lead the design.

This project is part of the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to building better communities and investing in regional NSW, ensuring locals and visitors have access to safe, high-quality public infrastructure and open spaces.

BK Engineering Consulting Solutions specialises in servicing regional communities and brings strong expertise in bridge design, construction and management. Appointing a local firm not only delivers a design tailored to the needs of Moonee Beach but also keeps investment and employment in the region.

The Moonee Beach footbridge provides access over Sugar Mill Creek (a Crown waterway), between Green Bluff Headland of Coffs Coast Regional Park (managed by NPWS) and Moonee Beach holiday park (managed by Reflections Holidays).

The bridge also provides a link in the 60-kilometre Solitary Islands coastal walk which is a major tourist attraction for the Coffs coast area, and the Green Bluff Headland which is a popular fishing, swimming and surfing location.

Minister for Lands and Property and Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said:

“We are focused on building better communities and investing in regional NSW.

“Engaging a local Coffs Harbour firm to design the new pedestrian bridge keeps jobs and economic activity in the region, while drawing on the expertise of people who understand the needs of this community.

“Completing the bridge design is a vital next step towards restoring safe access through this important area and supporting local recreation and regional tourism.”

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said:

“We are thrilled to see work underway to re-establish bridge access that is of such importance to the Coffs Coast community and it is great to see locals involved in the construction.

“I am thankful for the joint contributions and commitment to build a new Moonee Beach footbridge to reconnect tourism, culture, environment and community life at this beautiful location.”

The Albanese and Minns Governments have activated disaster assistance to communities in 6 Local Government Areas (LGAs) following a number of bushfires across New South Wales.

Initial assessments indicate a number of homes have been destroyed with extensive damage to more private property, critical infrastructure, fencing, agricultural assets and National Parks. The extent of the damage will be made clearer as RFS continue impact assessments.

The declarations activate a suite of support measures for residents, businesses, primary producers, and councils. People whose homes have been damaged may be eligible for immediate financial help as well as clean-up, rebuilding and recovery assistance.

The NSW Government’s Natural Disaster Declaration applies to the LGAs of:

• Central Coast
• Mid Coast
• Upper Hunter
• Muswellbrook
• Warrumbungle
• Dubbo

Support has been made available under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Assistance measures that may be provided to communities include:

• Assistance for eligible residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation and essential items.
• Grants for low-income, uninsured residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living.
• Grants for low-income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a basic, safe and habitable condition.
• Concessional loans for small businesses and primary producers up to $130,000
• Freight and transport subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.
• Loans for non-profit organisations up to $25,000
• Financial support towards counter disaster activity undertaken by emergency service organisations to keep communities safe.

Impacted Councils will be provided with support to remove debris and for the reconstruction of essential public infrastructure.

Community members affected by the recent bushfires should contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit service.nsw.gov.au to access information on disaster assistance, grants, and recovery support.

The Minns Labor Government understands people want to help, but we ask the community not to send physical donations. The best way to support those affected is by donating through GIVIT, our official disaster relief partner at https://www.givit.org.au/

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain said:

“The Albanese Government stands ready to support New South Wales communities during times of emergencies.

“Bushfires like this are very distressing and my thoughts are with everyone that has been impacted.

“Conditions yesterday were extremely challenging and I’d like to thank all our emergency services, crews are fighting fires and keeping our communities safe.

“The Albanese and Minns Governments are working together to get support to communities impacted by these bushfires as quickly as possible.”

NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin said:

“Our hearts are with every community impacted by the recent fires. We know people have lost homes, livelihoods, and their sense of security.

“Whilst we continue to contain the fires that have impacted communities across NSW, our priority is also to support those people whose homes and livelihoods have been impacted.

“These declarations make immediate assistance available so the difficult task of cleaning up and rebuilding can begin when it is safe to do so.

“The NSW Government will continue to stand with affected communities every step of the way as the full extent of the impact becomes clear.”

The historic Grafton Rowing Club Boatshed is once again a sparkling centrepiece on the banks of the Clarence River with the restoration of the 143-year-old building officially open as part of the city’s annual regatta.

Grafton Rowing Club was awarded $3.76 million from the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, which is jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Government through the Disaster Recovery Fund Arrangements. A co-contribution was also provided from the Grafton Rowing Club for the restoration.

The redevelopment features a covered public viewing deck with an adjoining café and function room, complete with kitchenette and bathroom facilities.

The café and deck complement the new waterfront footpath and adjoining Memorial Park, creating a vibrant and welcoming space for the community.

The stunning river views can be captured from the multi-purpose function room, while upgrades to the lower-level Rowers Boathouse and new flood-mitigation measures enhance both functionality and resilience.

The new upper-level facilities have been designed outside the 1-in-100-year flood zone, ensuring long-term flood protection and usability.

Other resilience works include the levelling of floors to allow easier cleaning after a flood and installation of a new flexible boat racking system which allow boats to be stored during moderate flood events.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain:

“This restored boatshed shows how disaster recovery funding can help protect local heritage while giving the community a stronger, more resilient space to come together on the Clarence River.

“By pairing modern floor mitigation measures with new community facilities, this project supports Grafton’s recovery in a way that keeps people safe while enhancing daily life along the waterfront.

“Investments like this ensure that recovery delivers long term benefits, with infrastructure that preserves local history, boosts recreation and stands up to future natural disasters.”

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty:

“Grafton Rowing Club, established in 1882, has a proud history and continues to play an integral role within the Grafton community.

“The redevelopment of the historic Boatshed has delivered modern rowing facilities, a covered public viewing deck, café and multi-purpose function room, all offering exceptional views of the Clarence River.

“These enhancements support rowing and other sporting events while providing a versatile community space for gatherings, meetings and celebrations.

“The restoration reinforces the club’s ongoing commitment to the community and ensures this historic site remains a vibrant social and sporting landmark for generations to come.”

Minister for NSW North Coast Janelle Saffin:

“We are building back better where we can to help create more resilient communities.

“Facilities like this Boatshed are critical for bringing communities together and creating recreational opportunities. It’s great to see it restored better than ever.”

Rowing Australia Sport Development Manager Ron Batt:

“Rowing Australia is fully committed to fostering and enhancing the sport of rowing across the nation and we believe that the new Boatshed will not only benefit the Grafton Rowing Club, but also the broader rowing community in Australia.

“Rowing Australia fully support the concept of the Grafton Rowing Club becoming a regional rowing centre of excellence, a place where athletes from all background can thrive and achieve their full potential in rowing”.

Grafton Rowing Club President Michael Collins:

“Grafton Rowing Club is very grateful to the Australian and NSW Governments for supporting this incredible initiative.

“We are proud to partner with the government in supporting the Grafton community, building resilience and positive engagement in response to our recent natural disasters.

“The club is proud of its rowing heritage and continues to enhance the sport of rowing for both beginners and the elite, of all ages and with any experience. We offer weekly school sport rowing, learn-to-row programs, social rowing and full-scale competitive rowing.

“We are thrilled to open our new facility, to support and enrich the locals and visitors alike, as well as broadening the opportunities of all rowing enthusiasts in the area”.

Flood-affected homeowners across the Central West are encouraged to apply for the Resilient Homes Program before 31 March 2026, in time for the full closure by end of June 2027.

This is the last opportunity for eligible residents to access support that can help them rebuild stronger and better protect their homes against future floods.

Eligible homeowners may receive up to $100,000 to raise, rebuild or relocate homes or up to $50,000 to retrofit properties using flood-resilient materials. An additional $20,000 may be available to help cover upfront planning and consultant costs.

Since the Program launched in late 2024, more than 300 homeowners across Cabonne, Forbes, Lachlan, Parkes and Euabalong have applied for assistance. To date, 243 tailored home assessments have been completed, 11 voluntary buyback offers have been issued in the highest-risk areas, and a number of homeowners have received reimbursement for resilient works already undertaken.

Dedicated support is available through the Resilient Homes Program’s Customer Engagement Team, which can assist with eligibility advice, grant applications, next steps following assessment reports received and guidance on planning and construction. Homeowners can also speak directly with staff, experts and builders at upcoming expos, information sessions and community pop-ups or via phone on 1800 844 085.

Residents can also visit the program office at 45 Broad Street, Eugowra on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

The Resilient Homes Program is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments as part of the $100 million Central West Recovery and Resilience Package.

More information on how to apply can be found via https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/resilient-homes-program

NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“This community has been through so much and I understand just how long the road back has felt for so many families.

“This Program has already helped hundreds strengthen their homes and reduce the impact of future floods.

“As we enter this final application stage, I want to make sure every remaining eligible homeowner has the chance to access the support they need to move forward with confidence.

“This is about giving people choices and helping families protect what matters most. If you haven’t applied yet, please reach out, we are here to help.”

Member for Orange Phil Donato MP said:

“The Resilient Homes Program has been a vitally important component in the government’s suite of recovery and resilience measures, following the devastating 2022 Central West Flood event.

“This program is now reaching maturity, with flood-impacted residents starting to receive the funded resilience measures.

“For those flood-impacted home owners who have not yet made an application for support measures offered through the Resilient Homes Program, I would urge them to do so before the deadline on  31^st March 2026.

“I want to acknowledge the NSW Government and the NSW Reconstruction Authority for their support in the ongoing recovery of our flood impacted communities.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Director, Central West, Orana and Far West Ken Harrison said:

“We know this has been a long and often difficult journey for many people. Our priority is making sure homeowners have the information and support they need to complete their applications and, where eligible, begin works or settlement.

“The sooner people check in with us, the sooner we can help them move forward.”

The State’s reputation as a global tech hub was confirmed today with the announcement from OpenAI that NSW will be home to the Asia Pacific’s first OpenAI for Countries initiative with a $7 billion data centre in Sydney.

The Minns Labor Government is working hard to cement NSW as the nation’s capital for innovation and the state’s status as a globally attractive investment destination. NSW is already a leader in data centres and technology infrastructure and the state is going from strength to strength.

Data centres are critical infrastructure to support NSW’s booming digital economy so the Minns Labor Government welcomes the proposal from OpenAI and data centre provider NEXTDC to establish the $7 billion data centre facility in Eastern Creek.

This announcement comes only days after OpenAI officially opened their first Australian office in Sydney.

NSW is also one of the top jurisdictions in the world for number of data centres with over 90 already in operation and another 20 under assessment.

These opportunities for supporting innovative businesses through skills development, local innovation and AI adoption are key examples of the NSW Industry Policy, NSW Innovation Blueprint and NSW Trade and Investment Strategy in action.

Together, these developments deliver on the NSW Government’s commitment to supporting AI infrastructure that is responsible and supports workers across the state.

Crucially, they will provide significant economic opportunities, strengthen STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) development pathways and accelerate job growth across key sectors including manufacturing.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

“Sydney is Australia’s digital capital, backed by world-class talent and strong government investment – and OpenAI’s arrival here takes that even further.

“In the years ahead, thousands of businesses will run smarter, be more competitive and innovative because some of the world’s most advanced tech is calling New South Wales home.

“Big private investments like this today are how we create jobs and grow the economy tomorrow.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Acting Minister for Innovation,Science and Technology, Paul Scully said:

“That OpenAI has chosen NSW as the first base in Asia Pacific cements the state as a global technology player.

“NSW is establishing itself as one of the top jurisdictions in the world for data centres. That’s due to our reputation as a sophisticated tech and financial hub, our drive to increase renewable energy and our skilled workforce which we know attracts these investments and makes them truly sustainable.”

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

“As a government, NSW is leading the way on the responsible use of AI to harness its potential for good.

“Through our updated AI Assessment Framework and the new Office for AI, we are positioning NSW for a brighter future when it comes to the safe and ethical use of technology to improve public services and support our public sector workforce.”

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos said:

“This announcement is a testament to the ambitious, forward-looking approach the Minns Labor Government is taking to secure international investment in NSW.

“We want to attract major investment to NSW and we want to see innovation, including AI, used to improve productivity across all industries.”

The NSW Government is issuing a final call for homeowners to apply for support under the Resilient Homes Program, which offers eligible residents the opportunity to have their homes voluntarily bought back or receive funding to repair and strengthen properties against future flooding.

This final round ensures affected households have access to measures that prioritises safety, recovery and long-term resilience.

Buyback applications will close on 31 December 2025. Applications for grants for resilient repairs will close on 31 March 2026, with the Program in its entirety wrapping up by end of June 2027.

Since the program commenced in 2022, more than 1,300 homeowners have been contacted to progress buybacks, with over 930 offers issued, 844 accepted and 732 homes settled to date. All buyback settlements are expected to be completed by June 2026, with relocations to be finalised by the end of 2026.

The Northern Rivers Resilient Homes is the largest climate adaptation program of its kind in Australia. The program is about removing residents from the highest-risk areas while laying the foundation for future land use planning, ensuring high-risk areas are managed more sustainably and that communities are safer in the face of future floods.

Eligible homeowners may receive:

• Up to $100,000 to raise, rebuild or relocate their home
• Up to $50,000 to retrofit their home with flood-resilient materials
• An additional $20,000 to help cover upfront planning and consultant costs

Eligibility settings, for resilient measures grants, have also recently been updated for key areas of Mullumbimby, Tumbulgum, South Lismore, Woodburn, Coraki, Broadwater, Wardell and Murwillumbah. The removal of the previous floor-level requirement for some homes means more homeowners who were severely impacted in 2022 floods may be eligible for support.

Dedicated support is available through the Resilient Homes Program’s Customer Engagement Team, who can assist with eligibility advice, grant applications, next steps following assessment reports and guidance on planning and construction. Homeowners can also speak directly with staff, experts and builders at upcoming expos, information sessions and community pop-ups or via phone on 1800 844 085.

The Resilient Homes Program is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments.

More information on how to apply can be found via https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/resilient-homes-program

NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“We’ve come a long way since the floods, and we’ve done it together.

“I know these decisions haven’t been easy. People are weighing up not just finances, but memories, connections and the place they call home.

“This final stage of the program is about making sure every family has the support they need to choose what’s best for them.

“Our community deserves the chance to rebuild safely and with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their future will be stronger.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Acting Head Adaptation, Mitigation and Reconstruction Kristie Clarke said:

“The Resilient Homes Program has already made a real difference for hundreds of households, helping people progress Buybacks, home assessments and resilience works.

“Our priority is ensuring homeowners have the information and support they need to complete their applications and begin works, giving them the best opportunity to protect their homes and families.”