Richmond-Tweed Families Buckling Under Cost-of-Living Pressures: New NCOSS Research

A new report from the NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) has revealed that nearly two-thirds (64%) of low-income households in the Richmond–Tweed region are struggling with housing stress due to escalating cost-of-living pressures. The report, titled Impossible Choices: Decisions NSW communities shouldn’t have to make, was conducted by the University of Technology Sydney and surveyed over 1,080 low-income residents across NSW.

Key Findings in Richmond-Tweed:

• 64% of households are in housing stress, spending over 30% of their income on housing.
• 61% have no money saved for emergencies.
• 51% went without prescribed medication or healthcare.
• 38% could not afford essential travel, such as for work or education.
• 38% went without meals due to financial shortages.
• 35% used buy-now-pay-later services to afford essential goods like food and transport.

NCOSS CEO Cara Varian emphasised the devastating impact these financial pressures are having on families in Richmond-Tweed. “Families should not have to choose between paying for food or medication,” she said. “These impossible choices set up intergenerational disadvantage, and we must do better.”

Statewide Trends

Across NSW, the report revealed that single parents are among the hardest hit, with 90% going without essentials over the past year. NSW children are also disproportionately affected, as three in four households (74%) cut back on spending for their children, and 52% sacrificed spending on health and wellbeing essentials.

The ripple effects of these sacrifices are far-reaching, negatively impacting mental health, relationships, and child development.

Recommendations to Ease the Pressure

NCOSS has put forward a series of recommendations to the NSW and Commonwealth Governments to alleviate these pressures, including:

• Lifting Commonwealth income support for Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, and Parenting Payments.
• Increasing Commonwealth Rent Assistance rates.
• Providing universal early childcare.
• Ensuring 10% of NSW housing is social and affordable.
• Implementing fair and reasonable rental increases and legislating against no-grounds evictions and rental bidding.
• Introducing a universal school food program in NSW.
• Expanding public transport concessions and improving regional bus networks.

The report underscores the urgency of addressing the financial strain on low-income households and highlights the government’s potential to drive meaningful change.

For the full report, visit here.

Definitions:

• Below the poverty line: Households earning less than 50% of the median NSW income after tax and housing costs (below $560 per week).
• Low-income households: Households earning 50-80% of the median NSW income after tax and housing costs ($560–$896 per week).

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Northern Rivers Election results to date

By Samantha Elley

NSW voted for their council representatives over the weekend and while results aren’t finalised, we have compiled the results so far at time of printing (Monday 16th of September).

Ballina

Residents of the coastal local government area showed they have been happy with the work Sharon Cadwallader has been doing as mayor. She is currently sitting at 45.08% of the vote with her nearest rival, the Greens Kiri Dicker. a long way back at 25.79%

A ward favourites include the Greens Erin Karsten on 20.73%, Independent Damian Loone following closely at 17.35% and ALP’s Maria Marshall on 14.07%, although Independent’s Kevin Loughrey is close on her heels at 13.52%.

B ward has larger margins with Sharon Cadwallader taking 36.12% of the vote then Kiri Dicker, much closer than in the mayoral race at 31.34%. After that the closest candidate is ALP’s Andrew Broadley on 11.65%.

C ward has the Greens Simon Chate leading the chase on 36.21%, followed by Independent Simon Kinny on 28.47% and another Independent These Crollick on 15.12%

Byron

Current mayor Michael Lyon’s recent public issues are reflected in the sad results of his race to get back in the top job, with his mayoral vote hitting a paltry 17.29% compared to Sarah Ndiaye of the Greens who is sitting on 34.71%. However, there is a chance ALP’s Asren Pugh is not discounted yet with 30.37% of the vote.

The Greens also have a chance of strong representation on council as Group D holds 40.22% of votes for their council candidates, followed by the ALP at 27.95%.

Kyogle

While it has been tradition that elected councillors in Kyogle voted for the mayor, residents of this inland local government area had the extra task of deciding in a referendum question, whether or not they wanted a popularly elected mayor and a reduction in the ward numbers or the status quo. Results at time of printing were not available.

A ward’s most popular candidate thus far is Brett McNamara with 31.15% of the vote, followed by Kieran Somerville with 26.67% and long-standing councillor Janet Wilson at 18.40%.

B ward’s winning candidate is currently Olivia Taylor with 34.03%, then current councillor John Burley 25% and Robert Cullen on 19.29%.

In C ward popular councillor and previous mayor Danielle Mulholland holds 40.88% of the vote with Tom Cooper on 21.06% coming second and Robin Harley on 13.63% holding the bronze.

Lismore

There is no doubting the popularity of current mayor Steve Krieg who looks like holding his seat with 48.38% of the vote, trailed by the Greens Vanessa Grindon-Ekins on 21.13%.

The Independent Group A look like, not only getting their mayor back in but will fill a few seats around the council table with 42.39% of votes.

They are followed by the Greens Group D with 26.77% and ALP’s Group B holding 18.77%.

Richmond Valley

It looks like business as usual for the Richmond Valley with mayor Robert Mustow holding a comfortable lead to retain his role on 38.93%. He was given a run for his money by newcomer Lyndall Murray in the early part of counting before she settled around 27.17%.

There should be a mixture of new and old faces on council with Group D, led by the current mayor, Robert Mustow receiving 41.42% of the vote and newcomers, with Lyndall Murray, Group C, second with 25.69%. Group A led by previous Richmond Valley general manager, John Walker obtained a healthy 20.51%.

Tweed

A large number of parties were vying for all council positions with the current group with most votes being the Liberals with 28.74%. ALP are a comfortable second on 14.96% and Independent Group A, led by current mayor, Chris Cherry in third with 13.42%.

To keep up to date with the Northern Rivers Elections Results, click here.

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Richmond Valley candidates vie for your vote

By Tim Howard

Candidates for the Richmond Valley Council election have largely organised themselves into four voting groups and have made their pitches to voters accordingly.

John Walker and Group A Richmond Valley candidates

John has been a successful executive in local government and the private sector, doing difficult jobs that require hard decisions.

He has a reputation for leading from the front, getting things done, and delivering what he promises.

John was CEO at five councils and a Councillor at another. He is a former general manager at RVC where he introduced improvements to its finances, amenities and services.

Group A has strong links to the Richmond Valley community.

Stuart George

Stuart was born and bred in Casino and lived in the area for 95% of his life with strong family and community ties in Richmond Valley.

Reason for standing: I want to see unity between RVC and the community/ratepayers, especially after the saleyards and the unsettling divisiveness it caused. We need to unify the community again and get back to where the RVC was the envy of the Northern Rivers communities.

Bridge the disconnect and dismantle the perception of arrogance.

Kylie O’Reilly

Kylie is running for Richmond Valley Council with a dedicated team that supports my role while addressing other key areas.

My primary goal is to be a strong advocate for the lower river areas, including vital infrastructure, ensuring these communities receive the attention and resources they need.

Scott Brereton

Scott has lived in this community for more than 50 years.

He owned and managed a family tyre and mechanical business for more than 18 years, which they sold in 2022.

I am currently a standing board member of the Casino RSM Club.

I believe in the importance of listening to the concerns and needs of our residents and working together to find solutions that benefit our community. As a councillor, I will prioritise transparency, accountability, and communication with the people I serve.

Anne Toohey

Anne is running for council to bring fresh perspectives and new energy to the council.

Raised on a beef property and now running our family dairy farm business, sheI understands the unique challenges facing the region.

Anne is the company secretary at Casino Food Co-op, (Casino meat works) and has an extensive background in corporate governance at an executive level.

She is passionate about creating an environment where businesses can thrive and backs policies that attract investment, support local businesses, and create jobs that will boost our region’s economy and ensure its sustainability and growth.

Robert Hayes and Group B Richmond Valley candidates

Vote for Group B to keep the lower river area connected to the rest of the Richmond Valley Council.

I have been fortunate to be one of the local representatives for the past 12 years.

During this time on council the councillors have largely worked well together, and we have been able to secure a reasonable amount of funding for projects in the Lower River Area, which has been rewarding and credit to the existing 7 councillors.

We are running a group of non-political candidates, that has a mix of local business people, some with prior council experience and some new candidates who are prominent members of the lower River Community with connections throughout the broader community.

show your support for the good work from the existing council by:

Voting 1 For Robert Hayes for Mayor

Voting 1 for Group B above the line for Lower River councillor representation

To give the entire community a workable council please aid us by:

Placing The Number 2 on the mayoral ballot paper beside Robert Mustow and a 2 above the line for Group D

If our team are successful we will

• Keep Airforce Beach open to 4 wheel drives
• Maintain the current leasing arrangement for the NRLX and guarantee the operation will not be at any expense to ratepayers.
• Re-visit current water supply contracts to get a balanced water rate across the entire RVC.
• Guarantee that the public get an opportunity to address council prior to a decision to appeal the Iron Gates court decision by having it included as a meeting agenda item.
• Not allow a Waste to Energy incinerator to be established in the RVC.

Thanks to the community Robert Hayes for Group B.

Neale Genge

Casino/Evans Head

I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Richmond Valley Council.

With deep roots in our community and a passion for its continued growth, I am eager to bring my experience and dedication to this important role.

My background includes degrees in Business, Accounting, and Law, and a strong foundation in leadership from my time as the former CEO of the Casino RSM Club.

I have also had the privilege of serving as President of the Casino Chamber of Commerce and Industry, President of the Richmond Valley/Kyogle Liquor Accord, and as a council member of Southern Cross University.

My current role as CEO of the Evans Head RSL enables me to engage with both the Lower and Mid Richmond communities, while I remain a proud resident of Casino.

I believe my diverse experience will allow me to add significant value to the council, particularly in supporting the implementation of its strategic plans.

My commitment to our community is unwavering, and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to its bright future.

Lyndall Murray and Group C Richmond Valley candidates

Lyndall Murray is your candidate for mayor bringing 20 years of executive experience in sports, entertainment, and tourism marketing with brands like the Wests Tigers, GWS Giants, NRMA Holiday Parks, AUSTAR TV, and Foxtel.

After moving to the Richmond Valley in 2017, Lyndall ran a successful business consultancy, supporting startups and scale-ups in eCommerce, cyber security, superannuation, tourism, and manufacturing.

During the floods, Lyndall coordinated more than 1100 rescues and aid drops through a makeshift triple zero call centre from her home.

In June 2023, she co-founded a fundraising platform Hands & Hearts Project with Bianca Rayner, raising $185K in cash and $180K in-kind donations to repair 48 homes, with support from Mick Fanning & the Charity Golf Day.

Bianca Rayner

As a fifth-generation Coraki local, Bianca Rayner carries a proud family legacy of community service.

With roots in Coraki dating back to the 1800s, Bianca’s deep connection to the region fuels her commitment to fostering growth and resilience in the Richmond Valley.

Bianca played a pivotal role coordinating an evacuation centre in Coraki during the 2022 floods, and has since worked on the frontline of the recovery effort.

Bianca is committed to improving outcomes for disadvantaged minorities, particularly youth and families.

Having grown up in a time where Coraki was a vibrant community with local sport played every weekend at Windsor Park, Bianca plans to advocate for a reinvestment in sports infrastructure to bring hockey back to Coraki.

Simone Barker

I am an Aboriginal Education Officer at the Evans River K-12 School and Traditional Knowledge Holder and Custodian for the Bandjalang People and Bundjalung Nation.

I strongly support public education because of the opportunities it provides for our young people.

I have joined Lyndall Murray’s team as I believe they represent the best opportunity to lift Richmond Valley out of its current socio-economic disadvantage through progressive housing and social policy, encouragement of diverse economic opportunities and sustainable use of our acknowledged advantage, and our wonderful natural resources.

Samuel Allis

I’m passionate about making a positive impact.

Coming from a family of business owners, I learned early on that excuses were unacceptable, and you could achieve anything with determination.

I started working at 15, making coffee, and by 18, I was managing a café bar restaurant.

At 19, I moved to Tabulam, where I gained practical skills in building, welding, fencing, and bushcraft. My love for animals led me to rescue dogs and study veterinary nursing.

I am running as an independent voice without any party policy influence with Group C to be a true voice for our community. Richmond Valley has incredible potential, and by promoting a circular economy and sharing our natural assets with visitors, we can thrive.

Kylie Maunder

Kylie Maunder has called the Richmond Valley home for more than 15 years, with time spent in both Evans Head and Rileys Hill.

She grew up in the small village of Drake, where she experienced firsthand the challenges that come with living in regional and rural communities, especially the lack of services and opportunities.

She believes in the importance of supporting rural communities and is committed to advocating for better funding for NGOs that deliver essential services. She is running for Council to help create lasting change, ensuring that the community thrives for the next generation.

Nathan Scully

Nathan Scully, born and raised in Casino, has been a dedicated member of the Richmond Valley community since beginning his butcher apprenticeship in his hometown in 1995.

Nathan is committed to the development of grassroots sports and has been instrumental in enhancing the Richmond Valley’s sporting facilities, making them some of the best in the Northern Rivers.

His work aligns with local government policies focused on improving community sports infrastructure and bringing larger sporting events to the area, thereby boosting both community engagement and local pride.

Hanabeth Luke

I am passionate about improving the ability of our rural communities to actively respond to change, while maintaining what keeps them special. Richmond Valley Voices is an important forum to have a say and express your views about what you would like to see from our next council.

We need fresh faces on council – smart young people who know, love and value what makes our towns and our region special. I would like to see safe homes become a reality for all of us, including from domestic violence, crime and natural disasters.

Councils can and should play a strong advocacy role in ensuring that the basic needs of all community members are met.

Robert Mustow and Group D Richmond Valley candidates

Robert was born in Casino and schooled at Casino Public and Casino High, and was a panel beater by trade.

He owned and operated my successful smash repair business for 15 years.

Since becoming mayor I am very proud of the council’s achievements during some very trying times, drought, horrific bushfires, covid, six natural disasters, including the 2022 devastating flood event. Each of these challenges has tested our community, but they have also highlighted our collective strength and commitment to recovery and rebuilding.

I acknowledge that the path ahead remains challenging yet I am confident in our ability to overcome these obstacles together.

With the council’s focus on housing, intergenerational infrastructure renewal (sewer and water), economic development and attracting business, I am hopeful children finishing their schooling will be able to find employment in our Local Government Area instead of needing to leave.

Steve Morrissey

Born and raised in Casino, I attended St Mary’s Primary School and Marist Brothers’ High School before becoming a butcher, running my own shop for 17 years.

Happily married to Angela, I take pride in our three children, two of whom live in Casino with our grandson.

Throughout the years, I have participated in numerous sports, notably as a member of the Casino Rugby League ‘Cougars’, along with playing cricket, touch football, squash and basketball.

My community involvement spans over 25 years at Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre, including a decade on the board and currently as vice president.

Currently serving as deputy mayor, I am proud of this council’s achievements and what is planned for the Richmond Valley’s future.

Sandra Duncan-Humphrys

I’ve been a councillor on and off, since 2000 and am standing for re-election, as I’d like to be involved in the progress of plans and projects developed and designed over the past few years. Knowing that the Regional Job Precinct Master Plan alone has the potential to build on economic prosperity throughout the Valley, I believe it is important to maintain forward momentum.

Volunteering within the community began in 1994 as the inaugural secretary for COWFM107.9. It was an honour to have been awarded Life Membership a few years ago.

It was also an amazing experience to be the president of Casino Beef Week 2001. Fast forward to 2024, the Casino Country Music Muster was a new venture for me. I believe this event has the potential to spread new tourism dollars throughout the Valley as the ‘Fans in Vans’ explore all the wonders of our Valley.

Getting on with the job would be a priority for me.

Sam Cornish

Having served the Richmond Valley for the past eight years as an elected member, the current council and I have helped secure $200 million worth of State and Federal funding to better improve infrastructure and liveability within the Richmond Valley, including disaster recovery funding in the wake of droughts, bushfires, pandemics, and flooding.

During my time on council, it has been pleasing to deliver multiple signature projects including, NRLX upgrade, Woodburn Riverside Park upgrade, Evans Head lookout and Stan Payne Oval upgrade, Coraki Riverside Park, Casino Memorial Baths, and most recently the Casino to Bentley section of the Northern River Rail Trail.

To learn more about your Local Richmond Valley Candidates, click here.

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