Permanent base for community services in Lismore

July 31, 2025 BY Angus Smith

Department of Communities and Justice executive director Katherine Tolner, executive district director Nicola Jeffers, Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, minister Kate Washington and deputy secretary Lauren Dean at the opening of the new Goonellabah community services hub. Photo: SUPPLIED

A NEW community services hub has opened in Goonellabah, giving frontline staff a permanent base to support Northern Rivers families.

The building brings together Department of Communities and Justice, Homes NSW and Youth Justice staff, many of whom have worked from temporary offices, cars or homes since the 2022 floods.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the new facility would help staff continue to serve the community in times of need.

“I want to thank all the local people who have had to engage with and visit DCJ, Homes NSW and Youth Justice, as I know it wasn’t always easy,” Saffin said.

Community members gather for the opening of the new Goonellabah community services hub. Photo: SUPLIED

“I also want to acknowledge and thank the frontline DCJ, Homes NSW and Youth Justice staff who’ve worked through difficult conditions to keep services running.

“Today’s opening gives the staff and caseworkers a permanent base so that they can continue to do what they do well, and that is serve our community members when some are at their most vulnerable.

“After everything our people have been through, it is good to see that the government has built back better facilities and it signifies a strong government presence in Lismore.”