Tender process opens today for Entertainment Quarter redevelopment

The Entertainment Quarter is one step closer to a vibrant new future with the NSW Government today opening the tender process for the revitalisation of the site, supported by a new long-term lease.

Currently, the Entertainment Quarter (EQ) at Moore Park is falling short of meeting its full potential as one of Sydney’s key hubs for entertainment, sport and creative industries.

In a prime location, the EQ sits alongside the SCG and Allianz Stadium, is 300 meters from the light rail, and is within walking distance of Centennial Park. The potential for the former Sydney Showgrounds site is immense.

The market is encouraged to submit their interest in delivering a world-class redevelopment of the EQ, ensuring it flourishes well into future, supporting more visitors, live performances and public events.

The process will allow all interested parties to put forward their plans to redevelop the precinct.

The open tender process will seek proposals that:

  • Deliver a hub of activity, driving increased visitation all year round, including midweek and at night.
  • Celebrate the history and cultural heritage of the site, integrating with the broader sports and entertainment precinct and parklands.
  • Create spaces that can host substantial audiences for live performances, with the potential for an indoor arena of 15–20,000 seats as part of the vision.

The process will be conducted openly and transparently, with independent probity oversight to ensure value for money and a fair opportunity for all proponents.

Revitalising the 10.96 hectare site aligns with the Government’s vibrancy reforms and vision for the state’s night-time economy: to cement NSW as a world-class nightlife destination for visitors, locals and workers alike.

Tender responses must be submitted by Friday, 5 December 2025.

To enable the open tender process, the NSW Government has secured agreement from the current leaseholder, Carsingha Investments Pty Ltd, for a conditional exit from its existing lease, which has a maximum term expiring in 2046.

The tender process follows initial market soundings, along with stakeholder consultation to develop a framework to guide the evaluation of proposals.

To view the tender documentation and for more information on the opportunity to revitalise the EQ, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/investment-nsw/why-nsw/entertainment-quarter.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“The NSW Government wants to see the EQ at Moore Park reach its full potential.

“We will do this through a long-term lease, which will allow the successful proponent to make the necessary investments.

“We want to transform the EQ into a world-class precinct that Sydney can truly be proud of.”

Minister for Music and the Night-Time Economy John Graham said:

“In opening the EOI process we’re getting closer to seeing entertainment at the Entertainment Quarter.

“We want to draw out world-class ideas that make the most of the great location and amplifies its role as Sydney’s premier sports and entertainment precinct, with a range of day and night entertainment opportunities for the community.

“Sydney is crying out for a new large live music and performance space. Complementing the lifting of the concert cap at Centennial Park, a revitalised and vibrant Entertainment Quarter will help us continue to unshackle our entertainment culture from the dark days of the lock-out era.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Sydney is a world class city that deserves the facilities in the Entertainment Quarter to match, so we can attract events and performances NSW has been crying out for.

“The expressions of interest and assessment process will make sure we are getting the best outcome possible for the people of NSW. 

“This builds on the Minns Labor Government continuing vibrancy reforms that are re-igniting our state’s spark.”

Minns Labor Government passes laws strengthening protections for war memorials

The Minns Labor Government has passed legislation strengthening penalties for vandals who seriously damage war memorials.

The Crimes Legislation Amendment (War Memorial Offences) Bill 2025 passed Parliament on Wednesday afternoon, creating an aggravated offence of intentional or reckless property damage or destruction applying to war memorials.

It increases the maximum penalty from five to seven years’ imprisonment for intentionally or recklessly damaging a war memorial.

The bill also amended the Summary Offences Act to allow the court to order a convicted person to pay up to $4,400 in compensation for any loss or damage caused.

This discretionary order means local councils, RSLs or other community organisations that maintain war memorials will not have to foot the bill for remediation.

One war memorial desecrated is one too many. The NSW Government is making sure the courts have the toughest possible penalties available to deter this unacceptable behaviour.

The protection of our war memorials is vital. Local war memorials play a crucial role in honouring the service and sacrifice of all those who have served.

They provide a space for communities to gather, reflect and educate the next generation.

Attributable to the Attorney General:

“The passage of this important legislation sends the clear message that the vandalism of our war memorials is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“It provides the strongest possible penalties for this unacceptable conduct and also means local organisations will not be left with the bill to repair any damage caused.”

Attributable to the Minister for Veterans David Harris:

“This legislation demonstrates this Government’s commitment to our veterans and their families and honouring their service and sacrifice.

“The strengthened provisions will ensure those who act inappropriately and desecrate the memories of veterans will feel the full weight of the law.

”We’ve listened to veterans and acted.”

Innovative virtual care program reduces time in hospital for sick children

A nation-leading program is giving sick children and their families in NSW a new option for care, allowing some children who would previously have been admitted to hospital short stay units to be safely managed at home.

This Virtual Care Awareness Week, the Minns Government is shining a light on the success of virtual care programs in NSW.

More than 100 paediatric patients have been admitted to the virtualKIDS Emergency Department (ED) Short Stay Unit since the trial began in March 2024, with 80 per cent recovering in the comfort of their own home.

The program developed in collaboration with the EDs and virtualKIDS at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network has been proven so successful, it has now been awarded a $500,000 funding boost to expand services as part of the Translational Research Grants Scheme (TRGS).

TRGS funding will allow care provided through virtualKIDS ED Short Stay Unit to include state of the art home monitoring devices.

Suitable patients will be sent home with wearable devices which enable clinicians to remotely monitor vital signs such as oxygen levels and heart rate, enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of virtual healthcare.

This will mean children with respiratory illnesses can avoid a hospital admission, while receiving ongoing care at home. The roll out will be staged and is expected to be underway by December.

The model is also being assessed for statewide expansion, with a potential roll out to regional partners in Dubbo.

The Minns Labor Government’s 2024-25 NSW Budget delivered a half a billion-dollar investment to relieve pressure on EDs, by creating more pathways to care outside the hospital, as well as improving patient flow inside the hospital.

Across the state, virtual care programs are providing much-needed relief to busy emergency departments while ensuring people receive quality care when they need it.

Families can access virtual care services by first phoning healthdirect, where you will speak to a registered nurse, who will assess what pathway is most appropriate.

healthdirect helps people access the right care – whether it’s advice on how to look after yourself at home, finding a nearby GP, or being connected to a doctor, urgent care service or other healthcare provider online.

Around 178 callers per day avoided unnecessary trips to the ED and were referred to an alternative health care provider during the last financial year.

This is a 42 per cent increase compared to the previous 12 months.

This helps to reduce pressure on NSW public hospitals while ensuring patients receive timely care through more appropriate care pathways.

The community is reminded to use the healthdirect service for non-life-threatening conditions. If you or someone you are with is experiencing a medical emergency, please continue to call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Minister for Health Ryan Park:

“We are relieving pressure on our hospitals and emergency departments by investing in alternative care pathways.

“The virtualKIDS ED Short Stay Unit has already helped more than 100 children and their families avoid an extended stay in hospital while receiving expert medical care from home, for free.

“This research funding will help expand the already successful service, so we can continue to improve access to health care for everyone in NSW.

“More pathways to care outside of the hospital; more staff; more hospitals; lower wait times – it’s as simple as that.”

Minister for Medical Research David Harris:

“Programs like this innovative virtual short stay unit are a great example of how medical research can be translated into practical programs that have real positive outcomes for patients.

“It is particularly pleasing that this program is enabling sick children to receive state-of-the art care they need in the comfort of home with their family.

“The Translational Research Grants Scheme is an important part of our efforts to strengthen research capacity to ultimately improve the delivery of our health services.”

Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network Director of Research Adj A/Professor Paula Bray:

“This innovative program allows us to personalise care to eligible families, improving health outcomes and responding to the state’s evolving paediatric healthcare needs.

“It means families can access care that’s not only tailored to their needs but also backed by the latest scientific evidence.”

Busting congestion for the Central Coast: Work commences on Gosford Bypass upgrade

The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of busting congestion on the Central Coast, with work officially underway on the first stage of the $40 million Gosford Bypass upgrade.

The commencement of work marks the delivery of yet another election commitment for the Coast, with the Minns Government having now invested more than $294 million on Central Coast roads.

These early works mark the start of a series of projects designed to bust bottlenecks and get traffic moving for the 30,000 motorists who use the corridor every day.

The first stage of the project will prioritise the Manns Road and Stockyard Place intersection at West Gosford.

The upgrade will deliver:

  • Extended southbound lanes north of the intersection to keep traffic flowing
  • A new 2.5-metre-wide shared path for cyclists and pedestrians
  • Improvements to the right-turn lane into Stockyard Place
  • Smoother, safer road surfaces and line markings
  • A relocated northbound bus stop for easier and safer access.

Work is expected to take about six weeks to complete, weather permitting, with construction carried out at night between 7pm and 4am to minimise disruption on locals.

Some lane closures will be required, and a reduced speed limit of 40km/h will apply as work is completed.

The Gosford Bypass program is being delivered in stages, combining short-term congestion-busting improvements with planning for future major upgrades along the corridor. Two further projects are currently in design and expected to be finalised in early 2026:

  1. Pacific Highway and Parsons Road intersection (roundabout capacity upgrade)
  2. Pacific Highway between Newling Street and Kathleen Morreau Road (safety and pedestrian improvements)

For more information and project updates, visit transport.nsw.gov.au/GosfordBypass.

Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to ease congestion and get traffic moving on the Central Coast.

“The Gosford Bypass is a vital north–south link for locals, freight and visitors, and we’re getting on with the job of improving safety and reliability for every road user.

“This investment will make a real difference for thousands of motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who rely on this corridor every day.”

Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:

“Progressing this region-enhancing project is a major win for the Central Coast.

“The Gosford Bypass upgrades will cut travel times, reduce congestion and make our roads safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

“It’s exactly the kind of infrastructure our growing region needs and deserves.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said:

“We promised to fix congestion on the Gosford Bypass and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

“This upgrade will mean smoother, safer and faster trips for locals, and better connections between West Gosford and the M1.

“I want to thank the community for their patience as we deliver this important project for our community.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said:

“Promises made, promises kept. This is a great milestone for the people of the Central Coast.

“These works represent real progress on delivery of the Gosford Bypass.”

New intake of paramedics and control staff for NSW Ambulance

NSW Ambulance proudly welcomed 40 new paramedic interns and 21 trainee emergency medical call takers today, officially inducting them into the service during a ceremony at the State Operations Centre in Sydney Olympic Park.

With this latest intake, NSW Ambulance has now added around 800 new paramedic trainees, along with more than 150 emergency medical call takers since the start of the year, providing an important boost to frontline health services across the state.

The recruits bring with them a diverse range of skills and experiences, including paramedic intern Shoallea Attoe, who overcame several personal obstacles to fulfill her dream and Niko Auer, who previously worked in media and will be joining the ranks of our emergency medical call takers.

Paramedic interns will now begin the on-road phase of their 12-month internships at various locations across NSW, before taking up permanent positions in both metropolitan and regional communities.

The trainee emergency medical call takers will be posted to the Sydney control centre.

Minister for Health, Ryan Park:

“I’m so proud to welcome these incredible new paramedics and emergency call takers to NSW Ambulance.

“These additional recruits will play an important role in supporting our community in emergencies, strengthening our frontline workforce and helping form the backbone of our healthcare system.

“The Minns Labor Government knows that investing in additional paramedics and emergency call takers is vital for the evolution of NSW Ambulance, as it continues to deliver exceptional patient care.”

NSW Ambulance Chief Executive Dr Dominic Morgan:

“I am delighted to welcome this latest group of paramedics and emergency call takers, with both roles critical in delivering timely and high-quality care.

“The diverse background and experiences of these new recruits will enrich the service and benefit communities across the state.

“Welcoming new staff is not just about increasing numbers; it is about building a team that patients can trust to deliver world class responses and treatment.”

paramedic intern, Shoallea Attoe:

“I had dreams of becoming a paramedic, but as a teenage mum it felt so far out of reach that I dismissed it.

“I am so proud of how far I’ve come, and of the example I’ve been able to set for my daughter that no matter your background, dreams that once felt impossible can be reached.”

trainee emergency medical call taker, Niko Auer: 

“I wanted to find a more meaningful job, something community focused and with a positive career progression.

“To be such an integral part of an emergency service is the right direction for me.”

NSW Government passes legislation to create independent advocate for victim survivors of crime

Victim survivors of crime in NSW will have a stronger voice after the Minns Labor Government passed legislation to establish an independent commissioner to advocate for their rights.

The Victim Rights and Victims of Crime Commissioner Bill 2025 passed Parliament late on Wednesday, fulfilling an election promise to establish an Independent Victims Commissioner.

The new Commissioner will assume the advocacy functions of the current Commissioner of Victims Rights, who will continue to administer the Victims Support Scheme and register for victims of forensic patients. The new Commissioner will:

  • Be appointed by the Governor and operate independently of Government.
  • Advocate on behalf of victims of crime on a systemic level and oversee the Charter of Victims’ Rights, which sets out how victims of crime should be treated.
  • Have the power to request or require an individual or agency to produce information or documents related to an alleged breach of the Charter.
  • Be able to prepare special reports for NSW Parliament on relevant matters, including the Charter of Victims’ Rights, and enter information-sharing arrangements with public sector agencies.
  • Be responsible for identifying, reviewing and conducting research into systemic issues faced by victims of crime, consulting with victims of crime and their supporters, and making recommendations to the Attorney General.

The Bill also renamed the Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 as the Victims Support Act 2013.

This will allow the Independent Victims Commissioner to appoint a new Victims Advisory Committee to replace the existing Victims Advisory Board.

The new committee will include representatives from the general community who have relevant knowledge of and experience in matters relating to victims of crime.

It will also include an Aboriginal representative as well as representation from NSW Police, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Legal Aid and the Department of Communities and Justice.

The passage of the legislation follows detailed and extensive consultation with key groups including victims’ support bodies and justice agencies.

Attributable to Attorney General Michael Daley:

“The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its promise to give victim survivors of crime a stronger voice.

“This legislation will allow for the establishment of an advocate for victim survivors of crime operating independently of Government.

“The Independent Victims Commissioner will play a crucial role in shaping policies affecting victim survivors and champion their interests.”

Renewing the inner city for homes and communities

An elected NSW Liberals and Nationals Government will unlock the Erskineville, Macdonaldtown, Newtown and St Peters area for new housing, transforming land around four train stations for a vibrant, connected community with thousands of new homes.

This announcement follows on from the Long Bay plan for thousands of homes unveiled last month.  Together they mark the beginning of a series of bold commitments to tackle the housing shortage and give more families, renters and first-time buyers a fair go.

The precinct commitment today covers more than 100 hectares of land located in the City of Sydney local government area and within minutes of Central Station. Today it holds mostly low-rise housing. The plan is to protect the character of key heritage streets while focusing new homes near stations and on suitable redevelopment sites. 

Early estimates suggest the area could support up to 15,000 new homes, staged over time with schools, childcare centres, green spaces and community facilities.

Leader of the Opposition Mark Speakman said the renewal would change lives by putting more housing where transport and services already exist.

“We’re putting forward a vision that makes sense for Sydney. These are neighbourhoods with trains, hospitals, schools and universities on their doorstep. Our plan is about making sure the next generation can afford to live here too. We won’t sit by while others make excuses,” Mr Speakman said.

Shadow Minister for Transport and Roads Natalie Ward said the plan shows how infrastructure and housing can work together.

“With four stations already in place, this community can grow without forcing people further away from jobs and study. Macdonaldtown station already has an upgrade planned and we would improve cycleways and safer walking links. Just like we built the metros and light rail, we will deliver the transport that makes housing possible,” Ms Ward said.

Shadow Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Scott Farlow said the renewal would show how density and amenity can work hand in hand.

“This is about homes with heart. We will renew communities with open space and give people the schools and services they need. This is a once-in-a-generation chance to bring new life to the inner city while protecting what makes it special,” Mr Farlow said.

Key features of the plan include:

  • A staged renewal with a master planning process focussed within an 800-metre radius of Erskineville station and 400-metre radius of Macdonaldtown, Newtown and St Peters stations, limited to within the City of Sydney Council area. The total investigation area would be in excess of 100 hectares,  delivering up to 15,000 new homes depending on final boundaries and configuration.
  • Completing upgrades to Macdonaldtown station and early delivery of new cycling corridors and pedestrian connections.
  • Expansion of local schools and new childcare centres to keep pace with population growth.
  • New parks, community facilities and sustainability standards to support liveability.
  • A planning approach that considers local heritage and places higher density near stations, with high frequency services within 10 minutes off Central. 

This renewal is just one element of the Liberals’ and Nationals’ housing agenda for 2027, showing that bold ideas and practical delivery can transform Sydney for the better.

From Nine Teams to 125: Koori Netball Tournament Marks 26 Years of Culture and Connection

The Koori Netball Tournament will return to the Charlestown Netball Association courts on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October 2025, bringing together more than 5,000 people from across New South Wales for a weekend of netball, family, and cultural connection.

Now in its 26th year, the much-loved tournament has grown from just nine teams in 1999 to more than 125 teams representing communities from Dubbo in the West, Taree in the north west, Illawarra in the south, Tweed on the far north coast. 

The event has become a highlight on the calendar for First Nations netballers and their families, creating a true carnival atmosphere filled with laughter, friendship, and fierce competition.
Image Credit: Kylie Streatfield


“It’s the best weekend of the whole year,” said Dianne Pascoe, former President of the Charlestown Netball Association and the driving force behind the tournament.

“They get their mob and bring in new people from the area to make up their teams.”

Over two massive days, more than 1,500 games of netball will be played across multiple divisions — from 10 years through to Open Women’s and Mixed — as players, families, and supporters come together to celebrate community through sport.

Campbelltown will field nine teams this year, blending families and newcomers who have recently joined the area. A few local girls from Charlestown will proudly deliver the Welcome to Country, setting the tone for a weekend grounded in respect and unity.

“The players have the best time catching up with family and relatives from different communities – they come from Dubbo, Baulkham Hills and Newcastle,” Pascoe said.

“For every netball player, there are at least four other people who come along for the fun – they bring their Elders, their kiddies to watch while Mum and Dad play on the court.”

Although Pascoe is not of First Nations heritage, she has been deeply moved by the tournament’s meaning and spirit since its inception.

“It’s so different to what I have experienced before. The atmosphere has resonated with me from the very first tournament. I love it. To me it’s all about encouraging people to play netball.”
Image Credit: Kylie Streatfield
The Koori Netball Tournament is delivered by Charlestown Netball Association, supported by the Office of Sport and Netball NSW, with the event now recognised as one of the largest and most significant gatherings for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander netballers in the state.

Netball NSW will also be on site to identify talented 11–13-year-old girls for development camps, supporting pathways for First Nations athletes, as well as opportunities for umpires and coaches to grow their skills.

“The Koori Netball Tournament is such a special event on our calendar – it’s about much more than competition,” said Trish Crews, Executive General Manager – Communities at Netball NSW.

“It’s about celebrating culture, creating opportunity, and building connections that last long after the final whistle. Every time we see communities come together for this event, it’s a reminder of the power of sport to unite and inspire.”

A ‘Spirit Award’ will once again be presented on Sunday to the team that best embodies sportsmanship, camaraderie, and respect throughout the two-day tournament – a fitting reflection of what the event stands for.

“The Spirit Award reflects what this event is all about,” Ms Crews said. “It’s not just about winning – it’s about how you play the game, how you support your teammates, and how you represent your community.”
NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

“The Koori Netball Tournament is a great example of how sport can enhance reconciliation by bringing people together in a healthy, positive environment.

“The Minns Labor Government is proud to support this wonderful event.

“The Tournament is always a weekend of fun and inclusive competition, and I wish everyone involved the best of luck.”
Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison said: 

“The Koori Netball Tournament is a highlight for our local area each year. Watching people coming together – either as players or spectators over these two days – shows how sport can really unite. 

“I wish all the teams the very best of luck for the tournament!”

As one of the state’s most vibrant celebrations of netball, culture, and connection, the Koori Netball Tournament continues to unite generations and communities through a shared love of the game.

Sydney’s newest world-class venue takes shape beneath Barangaroo

The Minns Labor Government is continuing work to strengthen Sydney’s reputation as a world-class events and tourism destination, with construction on the brand-new Cutaway at Barangaroo reaching a major milestone.

The first of 13 sculptural timber elements have now been installed, marking 85% completion of the project and offering a first look at what will soon be one of Sydney’s most unique cultural and event spaces.

Once complete, The Cutaway will enhance Barangaroo’s standing as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike, becoming Sydney’s premier venue for events, exhibitions, festivals and installations.

This project is part of the Minns Labor Government’s broader effort to recharge Sydney’s vibrancy, boosting the visitor economy by relaxing restrictions on nighttime trading, lifting concert caps, and investing in world-class events and attractions across the state.

The 13 sculptural timber “trees” form the centrepiece of the design, each standing 16 metres tall and made from up to 150 precision-crafted timber pieces. Beyond their architectural beauty, the structures also enhance the venue’s acoustics through perforated plywood and insulation.

Guided by principles of Connecting with Country, the redesign draws on deep collaboration with First Nations designers Shannon Foster and Jake Nash. The transformed Cutaway will reflect the curved forms of the giba-gunya (rock shelter), creating a space that is both welcoming and culturally resonant.

In line with Barangaroo’s sustainability goals, the project has achieved impressive environmental outcomes, diverting over 90% of construction waste from landfill, cutting carbon emissions by more than 50%, and sourcing all timber sustainably.

When completed in early 2026, The Cutaway will feature:

  • Two versatile event levels with flexible spaces
  • A grand main hall showcasing the original sandstone wall
  • Improved natural light and acoustic performance
  • Kitchen, green room and back-of-house facilities to support premium events.

Event programming is set to begin next year. For more information, visit NSW Government | The Cutaway.

Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said:

“I’m excited to announce the Cutaway is now 85% complete, as we continue our work to bring Sydney back to life and restore our reputation as one of the great global cities for culture, nightlife and tourism.

“Projects like The Cutaway show what’s possible when we invest in world-class venues that attract visitors, create jobs and re-energise our nighttime economy.

“We’re rebuilding Sydney’s vibrancy by backing our creative industries, our venues and our local jobs.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The new and improved Cutaway is set to become the beating heart of Barangaroo, drawing crowds from far and wide and providing a major boost to the local precinct and businesses.

“Delivering this new unique venue will ensure Barangaroo is a must-visit destination. Once completed, it will be another iconic institution set on Sydney’s harbour, hosting a diverse range of events, that will really assist in unlocking the potential of the precinct.”

Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and Night-time Economy John Graham said:

“The design of the Cutaway maximises the potential of the space, transforming it into a globally attractive venue for arts and culture.

“Located in a culturally significant location and redesigned in collaboration with First Nations practitioners, the Cutaway will feature First Nations arts and culture programming.”

Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich said:

“These works will supercharge the Cutaway as an iconic destination for events and exhibitions in our great global city, and also shows the government’s commitment to strengthening vibrancy in our city.”

Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Expos to focus on preparing homes for future disasters

Flood-affected homeowners across the Northern Rivers are being encouraged to make their homes more resilient to future disasters, with practical support available through the Resilient Homes Program.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is helping residents impacted by the 2022 floods take steps to protect their homes from future damage — whether that’s by raising, retrofitting, rebuilding or relocating their properties to safer ground.

Through the Resilient Measures stream, homeowners can access grants of up to $100,000 for house raising and up to $50,000 for retrofitting works to strengthen and adapt their homes, reducing the impact of future floods.

Homeowners eligible for Resilient Measures may also seek a grant for costs associated with other assessment activities, such as planning documentation, feasibility, design, and development approvals, where appropriate, up to a maximum of $20,000.

Through the Resilient Homes Program, homeowners can access matched funding, with the NSW Reconstruction Authority contributing dollar-for-dollar alongside eligible homeowner co-contributions up to $100,000 for house raising and up to $50,000 for retrofitting works to strengthen the flood resilience of homes.

To help residents understand what’s possible, the NSW Reconstruction Authority is hosting Resilient Homes Expos in Murwillumbah and Lismore, along with a series of Resilient Measures Information Sessions across the region.

These events will bring together experts in resilient design and construction, including architects, builders, relocation specialists, local council and RA staff, who can help homeowners along their journey.

So far, more than 580 home assessments have been completed, with hundreds of homeowners already receiving individual reports and beginning upgrades to make their homes safer and better prepared.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority is encouraging eligible homeowners to apply for the program before 31 March to ensure they can access tailored support through the program before it ends in June 2027.

The $880 million Resilient Homes Program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments as part of the broader recovery package for the Northern Rivers, delivered through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Homeowners can register for upcoming Expos and information sessions at nsw.gov.au/nsw-reconstruction-authority/resilient-homes-expos-northern-rivers

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:

“The Minns Labor Government continues to support Northern Rivers communities recover and rebuild stronger.

“Where we can, we’re helping people future-proof their homes with practical, long-term measures that reduce the risk and impact of future floods.

“Through initiatives like the Resilient Homes Expo, we’re bringing together government, industry and community to ensure people have the information and support they need to make informed decisions about rebuilding safer and smarter.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority Executive Director, Northern Rivers Adaptation Division, Kristie Clarke said:

“We know every homeowner’s situation is different, and recovery doesn’t happen overnight.

“These Expos are a one-stop shop where residents can speak directly with our team and industry experts about grants, approvals, and practical steps to make their homes more resilient.

“Our message is simple — it’s not too late to take action to protect your home and your family.”

Resilient Homes Expo:

  • Murwillumbah – Wednesday 22 October, 4-7pm, Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre
  • Lismore – Monday 10 November, 4-7pm, South Lismore Bowling Club

Resilient Measures Information Sessions:

  • Murwillumbah – Tuesday 28 October, 4–7 pm, Murwillumbah Community Centre
  • Coraki – Wednesday 19 November, 4–7 pm, Coraki Youth Hall