East Lismore Masterplan Unveils 500 New Flood-Resilient Homes
New neighbourhood marks major milestone in Northern Rivers flood recovery
A major new housing development designed to strengthen Lismore’s long-term recovery from the 2022 floods has taken a significant step forward, with the NSW Government releasing a draft masterplan for more than 500 flood-resilient homes at East Lismore.
The proposed development will transform a 72-hectare site on the former Southern Cross University land into a modern, sustainable residential community through the NSW Reconstruction Authority and Landcom’s Resilient Lands Program. The project is intended to provide safe, permanent housing for flood-affected residents while helping address the region’s ongoing housing shortage.
Under the draft masterplan, the new neighbourhood will feature a diverse mix of housing, including freestanding homes, duplexes, terraces and relocated homes from the Resilient Homes Program. At least 20 per cent of the development will be dedicated to affordable housing for low to moderate-income households, ensuring a range of options for families, first-home buyers, key workers and downsizers.
Eligible participants from the Resilient Homes Program who accepted buyback offers following the devastating floods will receive priority access before homes are released to the broader market, allowing many local residents the opportunity to remain connected to their community while relocating to land with a significantly lower flood risk.
The masterplan places a strong emphasis on climate resilience and liveability. Plans include extensive tree planting, water-sensitive urban design, pedestrian-friendly streets and careful site planning to ensure homes are positioned away from flood-prone areas. The neighbourhood will also benefit from its proximity to Southern Cross University, schools, shopping facilities and public transport.
Development is already progressing on the first stage of the project, which proposes around 100 homes across a five-hectare section at the northern end of the site. That stage is currently being assessed by Lismore City Council while community consultation on the overall masterplan continues.
The project sits alongside Landcom’s neighbouring East Lismore Build-to-Rent development, where 50 long-term rental apartments are already under construction. Building works are progressing well, with completion expected later this year, subject to weather conditions.
Community consultation will remain open until 16 August, giving residents the opportunity to help shape the final design before detailed planning and development applications are lodged.
The East Lismore project represents one of the largest housing initiatives undertaken as part of the Northern Rivers flood recovery and is expected to play a vital role in providing safer housing, increasing supply and supporting the long-term future of the Lismore community.
