More than 20 hopeful buyers packed into the Lismore Heights Sports Club on Wednesday night (September 17) for the latest auction of flood-affected homes, with ten properties changing hands for as little as $6,000 and as much as $60,000.

The sales conducted by Wal Murray & Co attracted 24 registered bidders and an audience of more than 50, including young families, local builders and out-of-town investors.

Interest in the flood buyback homes continues to grow, with 83 properties now sold across the region, drawing nationwide attention.

Among the successful bidders were honey processors Jackie and Luke Edwards, who snapped up a second buyback house to relocate onto their farm.

Hammer Prices at a Glance

• 8 Cathcart Street, Lismore – $44,000
  
• 29 Cathcart Street, Girards Hill – $46,000
  
• 106 Laurel Avenue, Lismore – $11,000
  
• 108 Laurel Avenue, Lismore – $36,000
  
• 316 Molesworth Street, Lismore – $14,000
  
• 161 Magellan Street, Lismore – $48,000
  
• 31 Orion Street, Lismore – $60,000 (pictured above)
  
• 49 Union Street, South Lismore – $46,000
  
• 17 Frank Street, South Lismore – $50,000
  
• 12 Hallam Street, North Lismore – $6,000
  

Wal Murray & Co salesperson Ben Conte said the strong turnout confirmed ongoing demand.

 “With 24 registered bidders, it’s clear these auctions are still striking a chord. People see the value and the opportunity in giving these homes a second life,” he said.

Resilient Homes Program

All properties auctioned are earmarked for relocation and have been acquired by the NSW Reconstruction Authority through the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly funded by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments. The initiative is the largest climate adaptation scheme of its kind in Australia.

To date, more than 1,300 flood-impacted homeowners have engaged with the buyback scheme, with 926 offers already made.

The homes come with no reserve, meaning bidding can start — and end — at just $1, making them among the most accessible housing opportunities in the country.

Recovery Minister Janelle Saffin said the program was not just about affordable housing, but resilience.

 “It’s great to see continued interest in giving these flood-impacted homes a new lease of life,” the Lismore MP said.

“There is no other place in Australia where you can get this kind of opportunity. It’s a chance to preserve the unique character of the Northern Rivers while helping to create a safer, more resilient community.”

What’s Next

The Minns Government has committed to reusing as many flood-affected homes as possible. Proceeds from every sale are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more residents.

The next auction, to be conducted by PRD Northern Rivers, will take place on October 7.