Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg has called on the NSW Government to back the people of Lismore by committing to a local leadership approach to guide Lismore’s recovery from the worst natural disaster in modern Australian history.
The Mayor and Councillors met the Minister for Planning, Paul Scully, and the Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, this week and told them of the need for local leadership for Lismore’s recovery.
“I would like to thank the Ministers for visiting our region and their commitment to re-set the approach for the design and delivery of Lismore’s reconstruction efforts,” Mayor Krieg said.
“The way forward must put the community at the centre, recognise basic physical and mental needs, and have local leadership. We need a locally led vision for our city, a homes program that meets the needs of individuals and families, a focus on jobs creation and investment into our community over the long term.
“We have waited long enough for the State Government to bring answers and solutions to the table following the impact of the largest flood in modern Australian history. The delays, misinformation and uncertainty has caused further trauma, prevented people from moving on with their lives and has had a financial impact on their livelihoods.
“Lismore City Council now calls on the NSW Government to back the people of Lismore by committing to a local leadership approach that is appropriately resourced and supported to create certainty and a future that meets the needs of our community.
“We believe, Council is best placed to take the lead and partner with the community in our recovery and rebuild.”
Mayor Krieg has written to the Premier and the Ministers requesting a meeting to discuss the Locally led plan.
Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg
What’s in the Plan?
Vision and Blueprint
Funding for a community led process to develop the long-term vision and blueprint for the Lismore region to drive growth, investment, homes and jobs.
Homes
A review of the Resilient Homes program to ensure it takes into consideration the impact of the 2022 natural disaster and socio-economic factors
Funding for the adoption of a case-management approach and concierge service to guide people through the available housing options.
Funding for critical infrastructure to accelerate the opening up of flood-free land for much needed housing.
Jobs
Funding for critical essential road infrastructure to facilitate the development of flood-free land identified for jobs.
Community Investment
Extension of funding for local organisations to provide essential support to individuals and families including temporary accommodation, relocation and mental health.
Human Impact Report and Strategy
Funding to undertake a Social Impact Report to examine how the disaster affected the lives of individuals in the community.