Council budget maps out $218m recovery priorities

LISMORE will enter the biggest infrastructure restoration and flood recovery phase in the city’s history next financial year, with a proposed $218.4 million investment set to accelerate major rebuilding works across roads, landslip sites and flood resilience projects.

The draft 2026–27 budget includes $209.7 million in grant-funded recovery works and marks what Lismore City Council says will be the most intensive construction period since the 2022 floods.

Lismore City mayor Steve Krieg said years of planning and advocacy had laid the groundwork for the next stage of recovery.

“We fought hard to secure Lismore’s fair share, and that advocacy is now translating into real outcomes for the community,” he said.

“After years of relentless lobbying, planning, approvals and detailed design work, the city is now entering the most significant delivery phase of flood recovery infrastructure projects in its history, with construction activity accelerating across the entire region.”

Council said 135 flood restoration projects had already been completed, with the next stage focused on larger construction works.

A landslip restoration package aimed at repairing up to 60 sites is continuing, with 17 projects already under construction and more than 20 expected to begin in the next year.

Work is also continuing under the pavement restoration program, which involves more than 100 sites across 49 roads.

The landslip and road projects are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments through disaster recovery arrangements.

Major flood resilience projects are also progressing, including restoration of the South Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant.

Critical infrastructure at the site will be moved to higher ground to reduce risks during future flood events.

Upgrades to the Browns Creek Pump Station are also continuing.

Krieg said the works aimed to improve stormwater management and help keep evacuation routes open during future severe weather.

“This year is about rebuilding Lismore in a way that is stronger, more resilient and fit for the future,” he said.

Council said the proposed investment would also support local jobs and economic activity across the region.

The draft budget and associated planning documents are on public exhibition until June 11 through the Your Say Lismore platform.