New build-to-rent homes for Lismore

CONSTRUCTION of new build-to-rent units is underway in East Lismore, with 50 more affordable and secure rental units set to come onto the market.

Designed to help alleviate housing pressure in the region, which has been grappling with increasing rental stress for years, exacerbated by major floods, this development will deliver a range of apartments, from studios to three bedrooms.

The first of its kind in the Northern Rivers, the project demonstrates a new approach to delivering rental housing in the area.

The new homes will be situated near shops, services, schools, Southern Cross University, open spaces, and other community amenities.

Twenty per cent of the homes will be dedicated to affordable housing for individuals with low and moderate household incomes, including essential workers.

The project is being delivered by the government’s property and land developer, Landcom, and regionally based construction company FK Gardner & Sons will lead the construction.

Landcom executive general manager of development, Tasha Burrell, said build-to-rent housing was a great example of Landcom’s commitment.

“We’re thrilled to announce the start of construction on this site, a step closer to getting people into homes,” Burrell said.

“This is a productive and exciting time for Landcom, with strong momentum across our suite of land and property developments in regional centres and our cities unlocking new housing options for current and future generations.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the project would provide greater housing security and choice for renters, delivering 50 new build-to-rent units to bolster housing diversity and supply.

“As one of the first ever build-to-rent projects outside a major city, this development will test a new housing type for regional areas that could be rolled out in other parts of the state,” Scully said.

Minister for the North Coast and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, said the new homes would be a lifesaver.

“The Lismore community has demonstrated time after time how resilient they are, but support is needed to ensure long-term housing security,” Saffin said.

“We are building back better, ensuring our community has affordable and resilient housing for the future.”

Construction is expected to be completed in late 2026.

For more information, visit landcom.com.au/eastlismore