The NSW Government has announced a $350 million investment in temporary modular housing to give people displaced by floods a place to call home while they rebuild their lives.
Discussions are underway with local councils across Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Richmond Valley and Lismore Local Government Areas to identify suitable sites for the homes, with preparatory works due to start on the first location in the next week.
The first confirmed location will be in Wollongbar, in partnership with Ballina Shire Council, with more sites expected to follow in coming days and weeks. It will be in the grounds of the Wollongbar Sports Fields and will initially include around 25 temporary accommodation pods with capacity to house up to 100 people. The Pods come in various configurations which can accommodate one to four people and will be co-located with supporting infrastructure and amenities.
Modular homes (or pods) are standalone accommodation units that can house one to four people each. Depending upon the configuration, the modular homes will either include bathroom and kitchen facilities or be supported by separate communal bathroom and kitchen facilities.
Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said one of the biggest challenges currently facing flood-affected communities is housing.
“We are working closely with community stakeholders on medium-term solutions that keep communities together, supporting residents to continue living in their local area while they rebuild and recover,” Mr Provest said.
“Regulatory changes have also been made to allow temporary accommodation, both private and government, to be set up more quickly without development consent. This means temporary homes, including caravans and self-contained vehicles, can be put in place for up to two years without council approval.”
The rollout of temporary housing sites is being staged to meet the significant demand in flood-affected regions. A range of suitable sites have been identified in partnership with councils, with more continuing to be investigated.
The NSW Government is also providing emergency accommodation in hotels and motels, Sport and Recreation camps, campervans and further support is also available via the 16-week rental assistance program.
Flood-affected community members seeking housing support are urged to contact Service NSW on 13 77 88, visit nsw.gov.au/floods or speak to recovery centre staff.