New housing planned to attract health workers to Lismore

NEW flood-resilient housing near Lismore Base Hospital is being planned to help attract and retain essential health workers.

The project is part of the NSW Government’s $200.1 million Key Health Worker Accommodation Program, which is funding more than 20 projects across rural, regional and remote areas.

Between 10 and 20 self-contained studio apartments are expected to be built close to the hospital, providing fit-for-purpose housing for staff.

Northern NSW Local Health District has received $34.2 million through the program to deliver projects in Lismore, Grafton and Tweed.

Health minister Ryan Park said housing was one of the biggest challenges facing regional health services.

“By providing fit-for-purpose, flood-resilient housing in Lismore, we’re removing one of the major barriers to attracting and keeping skilled health professionals in the region,” he said.

“This investment will make a real difference to the sustainability of local health services and the community’s access to care.”

Northern NSW Local Health District chief executive Tracey Maisey said the organisation was now seeking development partners to deliver the project.

“We’re seeking innovative and community-minded partners to help us create modern, well-located housing to support our staff,” she said.

“We know access to suitable accommodation can make all the difference in recruiting and retaining skilled staff, particularly in regional and remote areas.”

The new accommodation is expected to be completed by mid-2028, with expressions of interest open through the BuyNSW platform.