Repair to Return supporting flood damaged homes until mid 2026

THE Repair to Return program, a key recovery initiative already restoring 359 flood-damaged homes, will remain active until June 2026.

The program launched in October 2023 and coordinates tradespeople, labourers and volunteers to help rebuild homes.

It has also provided outreach and referrals to community support services since the 2022 floods.

The $5 million program provides critical support for recovery and will be extended through not-for-profit donation platform GIVIT. Funds also come from the 2022 NSW Storms and Flooding Appeal.

The new partnership aims to deliver up to 80 additional projects to complete essential repair work across the Northern Rivers. Resilient Lismore will operate the program.

GIVIT chief executive officer Chris Staines said the organisation was pleased to enter the partnership to support people who are living in homes that still require essential repairs.

“We are committed to working with communities for as long as it takes for them to recover,” Staines said.

Resilient Lismore executive director Elly Bird said the damage to housing across the region in 2022 had been widespread.

“The necessary repair required has been challenging for folks who don’t have the financial capacity to manage it on their own,” Bird said.

“We’re very grateful that we can continue this important work into 2026.”

Under the extended program, homeowner-occupiers from seven Local Government Areas across the Northern Rivers can apply for essential home repairs. Applications are accepted online, in person, or via referral from Recovery Support Services or the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the support had been one of the most heartening stories to emerge from the 2022 floods.

“Resilient Lismore has achieved significant outcomes in restoring homes and supporting households across the Northern Rivers, reflecting just how important their work is to our city and country,” Saffin said.

“This new partnership between the NSW Reconstruction Authority, GIVIT and Resilient Lismore demonstrates the real impact that can be achieved when government, local community organisations and donors work together.”

For more information, call 0455 218 692 or visit resilientlismore.org.au/services/repair-to-return