Lismore CBD hits highest occupancy since floods

BUSINESS occupancy in the Lismore CBD has reached 81 per cent, the highest level since before the 2022 flood disaster.

The figure, recorded in Lismore City Council’s June 2025 CBD Audit, is a three percentage point increase on December 2024.

The audit, carried out twice a year, tracks shopfront and upper-level tenancies.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the increase was encouraging for the city’s recovery.

“This increase is great news as Lismore continues to rebuild and shows the confidence our local businesses have in Lismore’s future as they continue to invest in the CBD and create local jobs,” Krieg said.

“The current rate highlights the vibrancy of the CBD and the collective investment of local businesses, event organisers, creative industries, sporting groups, and major infrastructure initiatives.”

Keen Street occupancy rose three percentage points to 88 per cent, Magellan Street increased seven percentage points to 82 per cent, Conway Street stayed at 67 per cent, Carrington Street rose four percentage points to 82 per cent, Molesworth Street fell three percentage points to 83 per cent, and Woodlark Street jumped 10 percentage points to 70 per cent.

Council has conducted six audits since the 2022 floods, with the latest showing a consistent upward trend despite some variation between streets.