$28 Million Emergency Services Precinct Coming to Byron Bay
By Robert Heyward
A new state-of-the-art $28 million emergency services precinct will be built in Byron Bay’s Sandhills Estate, bringing NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW together under one roof to better serve the region’s growing community.
The centrally located precinct will span 6,500 square meters of Crown land on Gilmore Crescent, adjacent to Byron Bay’s CBD. Designed with flood resilience and sustainability in mind, the facility will feature modern operational spaces and staff amenities to enhance emergency response capabilities.
Construction to Begin in 2026
Planning for the precinct is already underway, with construction expected to begin in early 2026 following planning approvals. As part of the development, Byron Shire Council will extend Tennyson Street to connect with Gilmore Crescent, ensuring efficient vehicle access and rapid emergency response times across the area.
The project is part of a collaborative agreement between Crown Lands, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, and the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council, which has resolved outstanding Aboriginal land claims on the site through Aboriginal Land Agreements (ALAs).
Strengthening Byron Bay’s Emergency Services
The precinct will provide a significant boost to local emergency services.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the collaboration between NSW Police and Fire & Rescue will strengthen their ability to serve the Byron Bay community.
“This new facility will provide our emergency services with the resources and infrastructure they need to ensure community safety. We’re committed to supporting our police and emergency services like never before.”
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib highlighted the government’s $8.2 million commitment in this year’s budget to replace Byron Bay’s nearly 50-year-old fire station.
“This modern facility will enhance firefighters’ ability to serve the community with better amenities, improved training spaces, and adherence to our ‘Clean Fire Fighter’ policy.”
Community-Focused Outcomes
The precinct’s development exemplifies the Minns Labor Government’s focus on delivering community benefits through sustainable use of Crown land.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper praised the collaborative effort.
“This project represents an alignment of critical emergency services, Aboriginal outcomes, and community infrastructure. It’s a great example of working together to prioritise community needs.”
Enhancing Capabilities for the Future
The new precinct will enable emergency services to respond more effectively to the needs of both locals and visitors.
NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said “This centralised, modern facility will enhance our operational capacity, enabling faster responses and more effective crime prevention strategies.”
Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM added “With advanced tools, enhanced training spaces, and future-ready design, this precinct equips our firefighters to protect and serve the community for years to come.”
This milestone project promises to bolster emergency services while respecting cultural and environmental priorities, ensuring a safer and more resilient Byron Bay.
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