The Suicide Prevention Bill 2025 has passed New South Wales Parliament. This legislation was committed to prior to the 2023 election and is part of the NSW Government’s ongoing work to deliver better support for communities across the state. The passing of this legislation coincides with R U OK? Day and World Suicide Prevention Day yesterday. These important days serve as reminders of the importance of conversations and checking in on others.This is the first time in NSW history that suicide prevention has been written into law. NSW now joins a handful of countries around the world in adopting a world-leading legislative model that makes every arm of government accountable for preventing suicide.In 2024, 951 people in NSW were lost to suicide, making it the leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 44.The Suicide Prevention Bill 2025 is one of the most significant reforms ever undertaken in mental health, placing suicide prevention at the centre of government decision-making and embedding accountability across agencies.The bill includes:A Statewide strategy: A mandatory suicide prevention plan led by the NSW Mental Health Commission and shaped by lived experience.Agency action plans: Every government department, including NSW Police, will be required to develop their own suicide prevention plan with rollout from 2027.Advisory councils: Two new advisory bodies, the NSW Suicide Prevention Council and the NSW Aboriginal Suicide Prevention Council, bringing together lived-experience voices, Aboriginal leaders, experts and government.Monitoring system: The NSW Suicide Monitoring System enshrined in law, ensuring transparent and ongoing reporting of suspected and confirmed suicides to inform policy and funding.The New South Wales Government understands there is much more work to be done, but this is a key step in building a better New South Wales and preventing suicide and its widespread impact on our community.Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said, “This is historic. For the first time, NSW has suicide prevention written into law, making every part of government accountable for saving lives. It is a world-leading approach and one of the most significant reforms in our history.”“Every life lost to suicide is one too many. This legislation delivers a united, evidence-based response that puts lived experience and Aboriginal voices at the centre of prevention.”“By passing this Bill, we are honouring our election commitment and driving a cultural shift across government. No longer can suicide prevention be left to the health system alone. It is now everyone’s responsibility.”“Today marks R U OK? Day I urge people to check in with their loved ones. A simple conversation can be life-changing. It might be the connection someone needs to feel seen, supported and safe.”Mental Health Commissioner of New South Wales Jennifer Black, "The Commission welcomes the passage of this landmark legislation, which strengthens NSW’s whole-of-government approach to suicide prevention.“The new functions for the Commission – leading statewide plans and supporting new advisory councils – underline that suicide prevention is a key priority for government, and highlight the importance of coordinated action across government and the community to save lives. “The Commission is committed to delivering on these additional responsibilities with focus, diligence and collaboration.”CEO of Suicide Prevention Australia, Nieves Murray, said, “This is a huge step forward for New South Wales and sets the standard for suicide prevention nationally. For the first time, suicide prevention is embedded in law in this state, making it clear that saving lives is a responsibility shared across every part of government.“This legislation enshrines the whole-of-government approach we have long called for. Suicide prevention is not just a health issue — it is shaped by housing, education, employment, justice, and many other factors. By making every agency accountable, the NSW Government is showing real leadership and driving the kind of systemic change that will make a lasting difference.“We commend Minister Jackson and the NSW Government for this landmark reform and urge other states and territories to follow their lead. This is exactly the type of action we need to reduce distress, save lives and build a safer future for our communities”If life is in danger, call Triple Zero. If you or someone you know needs specialist mental health care, please call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. It is a free service operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, staffed by trained mental health professionals.We encourage NSW residents affected by suicide to call StandBy: Support After Suicide on 1300 727 247 at any time for support – irrespective of how much time has passed since the tragedy occurred. This state-wide service provides a range of practical and emotional support to anyone who has been bereaved or impacted by suicide. For more information, visit: https://standbysupport.com.au/find-support/nswpss.For further information on NSW Health’s suicide prevention programs, visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/towardszerosuicides/Pages/default.aspx.

The Regional Accommodation Providers Group (RAPG) members, all of whom are not-for-profit organisations, were in the NSW Parliament yesterday and today, showcasing how they offer a home-away-from-home for country patients needing medical treatment and their families, led by Lismore's Our House.Lismore MP Janelle Saffin and Wagga Wagga MP Dr Joe McGirr are co-hosting RAPG’s 11th annual conference on September 10-11, which will be attended by NSW Health Minister Ryan Park and another 16 Labor, Liberal, National and independent MPs.It takes place over sitting days, and other MPs have said they will drop in.Ms Saffin thanked RAPG members for partnering with NSW Health to provide purpose-built accommodation for people accessing cancer care and other medical services in major regional centres across New South Wales.“When I was Federal Member for Page, I secured establishment funding for Our House near Lismore Base Hospital, and what a tremendous value-for-money investment that facility has been for the Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands,”“Dr McGirr and I, as Chair and Deputy Chair (former) of the Legislative Assembly’s Select Committee on Remote, Rural and Regional Health, appreciate how regional accommodation providers complement our health system by helping it run more smoothly.“On the human level, these facilities are staffed by experienced and empathetic locals who give patients a safe, affordable and comfortable place to stay, reducing trauma, stress and financial burdens for their guests.“Having this conference in Parliament House is about lifting the RAPG’s public profile and strengthening the relationship between its members and the policy makers, to meet the health care needs and demands of regional, remote and isolated communities,” Ms Saffin said.Lismore’s Our House founded the RAPG 12 years ago. Our House General Manager, Ruth Harrison, said RAPG members combined offered 81,760 bed nights for patients and their families each year.“A total of 12,955 patients were supported in 2024-2025.“RAPG accommodation centres encourage patients to access specialist health care when it’s needed, not just when they can afford it. Regular motel accommodation is often unavailable or unaffordable for many patients.“Treatment centres run more efficiently when patients are co-located, and schedules can be adjusted as needed.“Our members work closely with IPTAAS (Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme) regional teams, preparing paperwork for patients and bulk-billing accommodation, further reducing stress for patients,” Ms Harrison said.RAPG member facilities represented in Sydney will include Lismore’s Our House, Albury’s Hilltop Fight Cancer Foundation; Dubbo’s Macquarie Home Stay; Griffith’s Cancer Therapy Accommodation; Maitland’s Health Stays; Orange’s Cancer Care Western NSW; Port Macquarie’s Rotary Lodge; Wagga Wagga’s Lilier Lodge (Can Assist); Mildura’s Health Stays; Waverly’s Elizabeth Hunter Lodge (Uniting Care); and Orange’s Ronald McDonald House.

How many times have you driven through a roadwork site when workers have finished for the day, or at night, and still have to drive to the 40km/h or 60km/r signs?In certain conditions, this may be a thing of the past as the NSW Government has introduced legislation which will pave the way to remove worksite speed limits outside construction speed hours where it is safe to do so. Currently, construction speed limits remain in effect outside of construction hours. While some road and lane closures do warrant ongoing speed reductions for the purposes of safety, it is not uncommon for drivers to have to slow down on an unobstructed road for work that is not taking place. The Transport Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, presented to Parliament yesterday, requires all road authorities, including Councils and their contractors undertaking road works, to install, maintain and remove road work speed limit signs in compliance with a Standard to be published by Transport for NSW in the Gazette. This is a common-sense approach that applies where there is a road work area, but clearly no road workers in the middle of the job. If there is an unobstructed road and it is safe to do so, motorists will be able to return to the normal driving conditions. These arrangements are already in place in Victoria and South Australia. It is expected that the new Standard will be finalised by the end of the year following consultation with stakeholders, with the new system implemented next year. Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said, “This is an important commonsense reform to the way we manage our road worksites. “Protecting workers and road users around worksites is critical, and we will never weaken rules around safety. “However, leaving speed restrictions in place outside construction hours often needlessly slows down traffic movement. “This measure strikes the right balance in ensuring speed limits are appropriate and respected.” 

With the 2025–26 storm season now officially underway, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is urging local communities to take proactive steps to prepare for severe weather. Following a year where we’ve already seen record-breaking flooding, a cyclone and damaging winds wreak havoc across the state, the NSW SES is reinforcing the importance of early planning and community readiness.NSW typically experiences increased storm activity between September and April, with risks including heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has indicated there is an increased risk of flooding during heavy rainfall across New South Wales following a wetter-than-usual year.   Bureau of Meteorology Manager Hazard Preparedness and Response, Steve Bernasconi, said the Bureau's long-range outlook to November shows a greater chance of above-average rainfall for most of the state.  "Above average spring rainfall is likely to very likely throughout New South Wales and the ACT. There is an increased chance of unusually high rainfall for many areas," Mr Bernasconi said. "The wet winter for the coast and parts of the north west of the state means riverine flood risk remains high into spring.  As we move into the warmer seasons, more rain and heat mean a greater chance of thunderstorms. The average spring rainfall in recent decades has been between 100 and 300 mm along the east coast, while western NSW has had 25 to 100 mm." Mr Bernasconi said daytime temperatures are likely to be cooler than usual for parts of northern NSW and warmer than usual in some coastal and southern parts. Warmer-than-usual nights are very likely throughout NSW and the ACT.  "Spring and summer are the prime storm seasons for NSW. Coastal lows can also bring storms in spring, increasing the risk of damaging winds and flash flooding," Mr Bernasconi said. "Stay up to date by using the Bureau's website or BOM Weather app, where you can set notifications and locations and be prepared."NSW SES North Eastern Zone Commander, Chief Superintendent Kris McDonald, emphasised the importance of community readiness, noting that NSW SES members responded to over 29,000 storm-related incidents across the state last storm season.“NSW SES North Eastern Zone members continue to support our local communities during times of need,” Chief Superintendent McDonald said. “Their continued and unwavering dedication truly embodies the core mission of the NSW SES in protecting lives and building safer communities.”“I urge everyone to take simple steps to prepare their homes and protect their families.” “Have a home emergency plan and kit, clean your gutters, downpipes, and drains, secure loose items around your backyard and balcony, trim trees and branches that could fall onto your home, your vehicles, and consider your pets.”Last storm season, the NSW SES North Eastern Zone responded to more than 5,800 storm-related incidents. Of these incidents, 1,693 occurred in Tweed Heads and 1,016 were tasked to the Mullumbimby Unit.Storm safety advice from NSW SES:Secure loose items around your home and yard.Clean gutters, downpipes, and drains.Trim trees and branches near your property.Move vehicles away from trees.Prepare a home emergency plan and emergency kit.Download the Hazards Near Me NSW app and set your watch zones.For assistance during storms, contact NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000).For further information and resources, visit www.ses.nsw.gov.au.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA) has been very quiet of late. There has been no information released about the Resilient Homes Program, the Resilient Lands Program, future land use, squatters or the $150 million NRRI Program.If you walk past a buyback property, you may come across a sign that outlines the next ten houses for sale.The auction will take place at the Lismore Heights Sports Club next Wednesday, September 17, with a 6pm start.Wal Murray & Co First National Real Estate is the real estate agent that is managing this round of house auctions.You can view the houses today between 12noon and 2pm at the following addresses and times:17 Frank Street, South Lismore: 12noon to 12:30pm49 Union Street, South Lismore: 12noon to 12:30pm12 Hallam Street, North Lismore: 12noon to 12:30pm8 Cathcart Street, Lismore: 12:30pm to 1pm161 Magellan Street, Lismore: 12:30pm to 1pm31 Orion Street, Lismore: 1pm to 1:30pm108 Laurel Avenue, Lismore: 1pm to 1:30pm106 Laurel Avenue, Lismore: 1pm to 1:30pm316 Molesworth Street, Lismore: 1:30pm to 2pm29 Cathcart Street, Lismore: 1:30pm to 2pmAs you can see, there are examples where three houses are open for inspection at the same time. To prioritise your viewing, click here to check the houses online.As has been the case in previous auctions, there will be no reserve price set for the auction. A deposit of 50% of the purchase price up to $1,000 is payable on auction night.You can view the HAZMAT report and Auction Contract for a home by contacting Wal Murray by clicking on the listed properties.One of the conditions of the purchase is that homes are relocated to sites outside of Priority 1, 2 and 3 areas as mapped by the NSWRA, which you can see below.Today is the final day to inspect the ten houses listed for auction at the advertised times. Enclosed footwear must be worn on site.

The renewal and modernisation of Lismore’s public amenities blocks continues, with two new facilities now open at Lismore Railway Station and Nesbitt Park Playground in South Lismore.  Positioned at the start of the Lismore to Bentley section of the award-winning Northern Rivers Rail Trail, the railway station facility features nine cubicles, including two ambulant and one wheelchair accessible.  An historic photograph of the railway station dating from the early 1900s has been printed on both sides of the building, in an eye-catching nod to the heritage of the location.  Nesbitt Park Playground amenities block is designed for parents and children, located closer to the playground as well as the park’s popular asphalt pump track and mountain bike skills course.  Featuring three cubicles, including two wheelchair-accessible and one ambulant, it’s the second amenity block to open at Nesbitt this year, following the July opening of the toilets and kiosk adjacent to the cricket field. For the Lismore Rail Trail amenities, it is not just about being able to use the toilets; it is about having access to water to fill water bottles."There is no water station until you get about four kilometres down the track," Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said today."Now, there is drinking water here, as well as a toilet facility. It really does highlight the start of the rail trail. You can get yourself organised. You can go to the bathroom, grab a drink of water, and away you go, all the way to Bentley, where there's another beautiful toilet block as well."So, it hopefully encourages people who are using this railway precinct, and there are many thousands a week; I've been given the numbers about how many are coming to use this precinct, but we've also got a very active retail precinct over in South Lismore as well. That's another amenity for the business owners, to be able to attract more business to our South Lismore retailers as well. So, it really does serve a multi-faceted purpose."Completed by Bennett Constructions, the buildings share similar external designs and fixtures as Lismore’s other new amenities, which allows for improved maintenance and accessibility while also meeting current disability and access standards. Both projects were jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, at a combined cost of approximately $800,000.  Federal Member for Page, Kevin Hogan, said these new facilities make a real difference for families, visitors, and local residents.  “Whether you’re taking the kids to the playground at Nesbitt Park or setting out on the Rail Trail, this is about having modern, clean, accessible amenities close by. It’s also a great example of all levels of government working together with Council to deliver practical improvements for our community.” When asked about the plans for the old railway station and why it is taking so long to get a retailer into the building, the mayor said it is an ongoing issue with Transport for NSW about the lease details.."We wouldn't sign the lease until Council could include that building in the lease. We all signed that under the proviso that we are able to generate income, to be able to provide the maintenance for the rail trail. For whatever reason, at the finalisation of those documents, the station didn't get signed over. We're still fighting with Transport to get that."The story goes that they had already signed a tenant to go in there. They've since, I believe, left town, so it's one of those things where we're just fighting through layers and layers of government red tape and bureaucracy to get the answer that we need, which is that council wants to be able to sublet that to very similar to the start of the Murwillumbah Rail Trail. They've got a bike shop and a cafe and a tourist information centre. This building sits perfectly to tie in with that sort of theme as well, and that's our intention."Another concern for the Rail Trail and its users is the homeless camps that have set up at the railway station. There have been reports of families being exposed to people urinating in front of them, plus a South Lismore business owner today said he has had trouble with people causing a disturbance in his shop, and knows of others along Union Street.Mayor Krieg said, "As a councillor, I've made repeated requests. There are laws around being able to move people on, and I respect that. But, we also don't have custody of that building either, so we're very limited. We're not the owner or the lessee of that building, so we're very limited in what we can do as a council about that. Sadly, it is a sign of the times of a growing population, and it's not just Lismore, it seems to be a much broader issue across the region, across the state, and sadly, across the country."

UPDATE from Fire and Rescue Station 316 GoonellabahShortly before 1pm Fire and Rescue NSW crews from Lismore, Goonellabah and Alstonville responded to reports of a unit fire on Ballina Rd, East Lismore. Crews arrived to find the Front Unit fully involved in fire. Quick actions by Firefighters managed to stop the Fire spreading to the rear unit and surrounding houses.The Fire was brought under control after 2 hours of Firefighting operation.ORIGINAL STORYLismore App reader Dylan has told the Lismore App of a house fire on Ballina Road in the Lismore CBD.Live Traffic shows the fire at the Brewster Street crossroad, saying it started at 12:57pm.The westbound lane is closed to traffic, so you will need to take an alternative route to get to South Lismore.Emergency Services and Transport for NSW are in attendance.More to come.

The NSW Government introduced a bill to Parliament extending tax cuts to boost new build-to-rent homes yesterday.The legislation means that owners of an eligible new build-to-rent development will be able to access a land tax concession indefinitely, rather than the previous end date of 2039, which was set by the former government.This ongoing program provides:A 50 per cent reduction in the assessable land value of eligible build-to-rent properties. There is no cap on the number of years owners can apply for the concession,Eligibility requirements including that construction have commenced on or after 1 July 2020 and the building has not been used for any other purpose, andA prohibition stopping build-to-rent properties from being subdivided, or otherwise having ownership divided, within the first 15 years of accessing the concession.Removing the program’s end date gives confidence to developers who are making long-term investment decisions now. The changes mean developers can offer longer-term lease options, better security for tenants and more housing choices for people at different life stages.The NSW Government is working to build more homes for more people across NSW, and that includes build-to-rent options approved or underway, including:60 new affordable build-to-rent homes under construction in Bombaderry and due for completion in 2026.Approved plans for 50 new build-to-rent apartments via Landcom in Lismore.Plans are being finalised for 220 new build-to-rent apartments for essential workers in Annandale.This bill also provides for exemptions or refunds for rates of stamp duty and land tax applied to foreign developers who qualify for the program.Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “Extending the tax cuts for build-to-rent developers gives industry the certainty to invest now.“That confidence means we can unlock a steady pipeline of build-to-rent developments to build high-quality rental homes across NSW.”Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “In addition to the nine build-to-rent projects in the planning system, Landcom is undertaking build-to-rent projects in Bombaderry, Lismore and Annandale – and this legislation will help unlock many more across the state.“This change removes unnecessary red tape and gives developers the confidence to commit to projects that will deliver homes for decades to come.”

Councillor Jeri Hall will serve as the Lismore City Council Deputy Mayor for the next three years (until August 2028), the month before the next local council elections in September 2028.Traditionally, the Lismore Deputy Mayor is elected every 12 months; however, councillors voted to keep Councillor (Cr) Hall in the Deputy Mayor's role for certainty and consistency, with an 8/3 vote.There were two nominations for Deputy Mayor, Cr Hall and Knight-Smith. Cr Hall won the vote 7/4.The debate among councillors revolved around giving all councillors the chance to become Deputy Mayor, for the experience and leadership opportunities it creates, versus the certainty and continuity that comes with having one person in the role for a sustained period.An amended motion to make the Deputy Mayor vote back to 12 months was defeated, before Cr Hall's appointment was ratified until August 2028.Another annual vote, which was changed to the end of this council's tenure, was the timing of Council meetings.The debate was the same one that had been raised in many previous meetings since meetings started at 10am, and public access was moved to before the meeting proper at 9am.Originally, the motion was to vote on the meeting day and time for 2026; however, Cr Dalton-Earls moved an amendment to change the date to August 2028 after it was confirmed that this was possible by General manager Eber Butron.Cr Guise, Waters and Knight-Smith reiterated their positions that daytime meetings mean workers cannot attend or listen via live-streaming, which leads to less community involvement. While Crs Jensen, Dalton-Earls and Hall mentioned there was more listening during the day, savings in the budget when the meeting is held during the day and health & safety concerns for councillors and staff when meetings are held at night.The vote was an easy 8/3 win for daytime meetings until August 2028.An event the public was not aware of was that Norco unintentionally discharged a non-compliant trade waste stream from the ice cream factory at 120 Union Street, South Lismore, into the South Lismore Treatment Plant, resulting in the contamination of all treatment processes with milk solids between October and December 2023.Council said that the charges imposed on Norco are determined by the discharge quality criteria outlined in Council’s “Wastewater Usage Charging Strategy”. The charge per kilogram is identified in Council’s Fees and Charges under ‘Category 3 Excess Mass Charges: Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD)’. Due to a series of accidental non-compliant events, Norco incurred a total bill of $418,183.58 for the three-month period for both volume and excess mass fees. Under normal compliant discharge conditions, Norco would have incurred charges of approximately $30,000 over the same period.Recognising the cost recovery amount and Norco’s proactive collaboration with Council’s Trade Waste Officer to address potential bypass streams, it was proposed not to enforce the full invoice amount, but to base the charges on cost recovery associated with the damage caused.The result was an outstanding balance of $99,590; therefore, council staff require the approval of councillors to write off $318,592.58. As the incident was an accident, they did not want to charge any punitive damages, which it is entitled to do.A council staff member explained that there were exceptional circumstances in this scenario."It was conceded that there were multiple issues that were presented. There was a potential that it was a council blockage in our assets that created the excess trade waste. Once we had removed that, it became apparent that it was not that issue, that's when Norco actually invited our staff on site. We assisted as much as possible."They also were willing to work with us. And it wasn't until that final stage where the trade waste pit was actually discovered, the internally trade wastage, and it was actually underneath, I believe, a large cement cover of some description, which meant they didn't know it was there. They couldn't see that it was filling up with excess trade waste, and also their systems were not reporting any increase at all."Cr Waters put forward another amendment that, in accordance with section 131 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (NSW), Council approve the write-off of $286,703.58 of the liquid trade waste charges owed by Norco for the October to December period 2023, leaving an outstanding balance of $131,480, including GST."While I'm supportive of reducing the debt, of course, I think this amendment just actually gives weight to the second event that happened in December, which they've accepted responsibility to," Cr Waters said.Cr Guise supported Cr Waters. "For that second event, it would be in ratepayers' interest that we don't just rollover and take on that responsibility, and that should be factored into the amount we're going to write off."Other councillors argued that Norco is one of Lismore's biggest employers and that punishing a local business for being honest."They come to us, they told us they rectified it straight away. We really want to encourage that sort of relationship with our residents and with our industrial bodies in Lismore," Cr Hall said.Cr Battista said this was a classic example of missing the forest by looking at one tree."You're missing out on what Norco is. It is a company that has been here for 130 years, and today, they still employ 130 people. So, if you add up all those years by the number of people that have been employed throughout the years, it's a massive, massive income for Lismore."The amendment was defeated 8/3, with Crs Waters, Guise and Dalton-Earls for. When it came to voting on the original staff motion to cover the costs and charge $99,590, the vote was unanimous.The next Lismore City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 14 at 10am.

The Baby & Toddler Clothes Swap, run entirely by volunteers and supported by Lismore Library, is drawing over 100 people each month. Families arrive to find long tables piled with donated clothes from newborn to size 5, along with baby linen and accessories, all freely available to anyone who needs them.Volunteer organiser Katerina Crandon said the swap is about more than clothes.“After the floods, volunteers saw parents struggling to meet the simplest needs, like clothing their babies. That’s when a group of mums came together to start sharing what we had. Four years later, the swap has grown into a tradition that’s about love, resilience and standing together as a community. Every smiling child, every parent who leaves with clothes they needed – that’s what keeps us going.”The swaps currently take place at Lismore Library on the second Saturday of each school term month, alongside the Lismore Toy Library Inc. The next dates are 13 September, 8 November and 13 December, 9:30–11:30am.Lismore Library Manager Michael Lewis said the library was delighted to see such a strong community spirit.“This project is proof that when our community comes together, wonderful things happen. We are so proud to provide a space where families can connect, share resources, and make life a little easier.”The organisers are now calling for new volunteers to help sort donations, set up and pack down, and keep the swap running smoothly.Families are warmly invited to attend – no donation is required to participate. It’s all about sharing, supporting and caring for Lismore’s youngest generation.“This project only works because of volunteers and community spirit,” Ms Crandon said. “If you want to be part of something joyful that makes a real difference, we’d love to welcome you to the team.”The Lismore Library is at 110 Magellan Street, Lismore CBD, and is part of The Quad.

The first item on the agenda at yesterday's Lismore City Council meeting was a motion that involved the CSIRO Richmond River Catchment Flood Mitigation modelling.Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg put forward the motion as a Mayoral Minute when he realised that Lismore City Council did not have an official position on the work being done by the CSIRO. This followed a motion put forward by another councillor at a recent Rous County Council meeting.The motion stated that Council:supports the Northern Rivers Resilience Initiative (NRRI) project and its findingssupports the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and CSIRO, and in particular, Dr Jai Vaze and his team at CSIROrequests CSIRO to investigate and model flood mitigation options 6, 7, 8, 12 and 13 as a bundlewrites to The Hon Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government; The Hon Janelle Saffin MP, Minister for Small Business, Recovery and the North Coast; The Hon Kevin Hogan MP, Federal MP for Page; Brendan Moon, CEO NEMA; Dr Jai Vaze, Senior Principal Research Scientist (Hydrologist), Project Leader, NRRI, CSIRO to affirm Council's position and support for this modellingask the CSIRO if they would consider undertaking the Lismore Flood Risk Management Study and Plan after June 30For clarification, points 6, 7, 8, 12 and 13 are:6: Water retention in the Wilsons catchment upstream of Lismore (location to be finalised)7: Water retention in the Terania Creek catchments upstream of Lismore (location to be finalised)8: Water retention in the Leycester Creek catchment upstream of Lismore (location to be finalised)12: Tuckean Swamp bypass and drainage and Baggotville barrage upgrade13: Opening of Boundary Creek to the Pacific OceanNeedless to say, the two Green councillors, Guise and Waters, were not 100% on board as the solutions were all 'hard engineering solutions', and did not involve nature-based solutions.Councillor (Cr) Waters put forward an amendment to add Richmond Landcare nature-based solutions modelling to be included when the data is available.Cr Waters said that Richmond Landcare do a lot of work in this area, and it would be a missed opportunity if the data were not used to investigate flood mitigation using nature-based solutions."It's also part of the whole package that we need," Cr Waters said.Cr Guise supported his fellow Green councillor."And so for me, a proposal like this, which looks at what I call hard engineering solutions, which is essentially about mega dams and mega excavations and diverting water flow, will have profound impacts on the landscape."Cr Dalton-Earls asked a question about raising the Lismore Levee, to which the mayor replied that the general consensus is that there is no community appetite to raise the levee.Speaking against the amendment, Cr Rob said that nature-based solutions were included in the $150 million NRRI flood resilience projects, and had already started."Applications were made to get it funded as part of a strategy for river health, to access filtration and helps mitigate such things as black water events, but it also helps with flood mitigation in the sense of the lower end of the range of floods."Now, I don't think anyone who understands flood mitigation or nature-based solutions would ever suggest that nature-based solutions will help in massive floods. It just won't do it because the water level is above the trees, and a lot of it gets washed away in the water, especially if not done well."This point has been made to the Lismore App by Jai Vaze from the CSIRO. Nature-based solutions will have no effect on mitigating a major flood, and the CSIRO remit was to find solutions that can lower the river level during a major flood, which is why they will not be tested in the upcoming flood modelling scenarios.Cr Battista asked councillors to show a united front when it came to the vote, as he is worried about receiving the funding."The last thing we want to do is a divided vote because the government then will be saying they divided 50/50, I'm not going to give you anything. It's happened before. When the community is divided, the pollies tend to sort of retreat and don't fund anything."That statement fell on deaf ears, with the amendment defeated 9/2 and then the mayor's original motion successful 9/2, with Crs Waters and Guise voting against.It does appear that those who are anti-engineering solutions will be the part of the community who will not change their stance, not matter what the result.Jai Vaze will be coming back to Lismore in two weeks' time to present the options to all councils and other stakeholders.

Victim-survivors of domestic violence will soon have greater power to leave unsafe homes and protect their privacy under new rental reforms introduced by the NSW Government in NSW Parliament today.The Residential Tenancies Amendment (Domestic Violence Reform) Bill 2025 introduces changes to the process for leaving a tenancy due to domestic violence to better support victim-survivors.The reforms will:Make it easier for victim-survivors to leave a tenancy by:Removing the need for victim-survivors to notify an alleged perpetrator that they have left their shared lease due to domestic abuse;Expanding the list of approved people who can declare a renter is experiencing domestic violence so they can break a lease without penalty.The expanded list will help vulnerable groups such as people with a disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people from non-English speaking backgrounds better access protections under the Act. Strengthen privacy and security protections by:Allowing locks to be changed without landlord approval if there is a court order or bail or parole conditions that exclude the alleged perpetrator from the property;Requiring permission from renters for images or videos of the exterior of the property that show their belongings to be published in advertising in order to reduce the risk of victim-survivors being tracked down by perpetrators.Improve a ban on listing victims on residential tenancy databases by allowing Fair Trading to order a listing be removed if the victim-survivor can provide evidence of domestic abuse.Make it clear victim-survivors are not liable for property damage caused by a perpetrator by allowing NCAT to decide whether the damage was likely to have been caused during an incident of domestic abuse.  Support victim-survivors to recover their share of the rental bond by giving NCAT the power to break up the bond and ordering partial repayments to a co-tenant. The changes follow extensive consultation with more than 400 individuals and 40 organisations, including frontline services, and deliver on recommendations from the statutory review of the domestic violence provisions in the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.These reforms build on our work to expand the Rentstart Bond Loan scheme, which allows victim-survivors of domestic violence to access a loan of up to 100 per cent of their rental bond to secure accommodation. Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns said, “These reforms are about making common-sense changes so women and families can get out of unsafe situations quickly, without unnecessary red tape.”“We’ve listened to victim-survivors and frontline services. The message was clear: the law needed to work better in real-life situations. That’s exactly what these changes deliver.”Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said, “These rental reforms are practical and compassionate changes which make it easier for victim-survivors to leave unsafe situations without facing unnecessary barriers.“Access to safe and affordable housing is a critical issue for victim-survivors of domestic violence. Many victim-survivors are unable to leave abusive relationships because they have nowhere else to live. “For those victim-survivors who manage to leave, the negative consequences of the abusive relationship often reverberate through their lives and increase financial hardship for many years.“We’ve listened to those with lived experience and the services that support them to ensure these changes provide real, meaningful protections.“These critical reforms have been developed in close consultation with victim-survivors and frontline service providers. They will make a real difference to the safety and security of people experiencing domestic violence in NSW.“At the heart of these reforms are safety, dignity and fairness and a desire to ensure rental laws work for those who need them most.”Minister for Women and Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said, “No one should have to choose between their safety and their home, and these changes make it easier for victim survivors to leave their rental home quickly and reduce risk of further financial harm.” “These reforms are about the NSW Government strengthening protections for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, including reducing liability for property damage and supporting them to recover their share of the rental bond. “We’re continuing to work hard to address domestic and family violence in our state, and these changes ensure victim-survivors have clear, practical pathways to safety.”

Southern Cross University is proud to host the final session of an exciting pilot project that brings together science, sustainability, and student innovation.In partnership with The Rivers Secondary College and The Rivers Academy of STEM Excellence, Year 10 students from Lismore High School have spent the past month immersed in a hands-on scientific investigation into the lifecycle of plastics and the potential of recycled materials.The project, which began in August, combines university-level lectures with practical lab work, allowing students to explore plastic properties, waste management strategies, and granulation processes."This project offers our Year 10 students a unique opportunity to actively contribute to addressing the critical issue of plastic waste, helping them feel hopeful about making a meaningful difference. “Working alongside industry and academic experts at Southern Cross University, they gain valuable insight into post-school pathways within the rapidly expanding STEM sector," said Rivers Academy of STEM Excellence Project Officer Zane van den Berg.Throughout the program, students have audited and sorted plastic waste from the university by type, then shredded and extruded the materials for testing.In the final lesson on September 8, students will conduct tensile strength tests on plastic blends containing varying percentages of recycled content.This session marks the culmination of their scientific inquiry, demonstrating their understanding of material properties and showcasing the potential of recycled plastics in sustainable innovation."It’s an inspiring experience that not only raises their awareness about environmental challenges but also opens doors to future pathways," said Mr van den Berg.This initiative supports the NSW Department of Education’s Plan for NSW Public Education by delivering high-quality learning experiences and preparing students for future careers in science and technology.The pilot is expected to serve as a model for future collaborations, with plans to expand across The Rivers Secondary College and include additional year groups and research themes.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is urgently appealing for people to donate blood and help boost critical supplies.The urgent call follows record high demand for blood during winter, coupled with peak appointment cancellations and seasonally lower bookings.Lifeblood needs 12,500 additional donors to give blood and plasma over the next week to ease the strain on its blood and plasma reserves. The Lismore Donor Centre on Country Street needs 70 blood and plasma donations this week.Data shows demand for blood reached record levels in June, July and August. This demand surge coincided with the highest appointment cancellation rates since the COVID-19 pandemic, severely impacting the supply of multiple blood types.Lifeblood’s Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Cornelissen AM, said a perfect storm of record high winter blood demand, peak cancellations, and seasonally lower appointment bookings means donors are urgently needed in spring to stabilise low blood stocks.“We’re used to seeing a spike in cancellations and lower appointment bookings during the winter months due to cold, flu and COVID-19, but this winter hit particularly hard,” Stephen said.“At the same time, we experienced our highest ever winter demand for blood, which has significantly impacted Lifeblood supplies.“We’re urging anyone who is eligible and feeling healthy and well to book a donation immediately and help restore our blood stocks.“Right now, we need donors of all blood types. If you’ve never donated before, now is the time to start. Don’t wait for someone else to do it. Every donation counts,” he said.A blood donor is needed every 18 seconds in Australia to help patients undergoing cancer treatment, major surgery, trauma, pregnancy and childbirth, and a range of other conditions.Just one blood donation can save up to three lives, and all it takes is an hour of time.To book a donation call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Lifeblood App.

Lismore has a history of supporting its own, most recently during tough times. This week, our beloved city has the opportunity to get behind and support one of its iconic sporting teams, the Marist Brothers Rams First Grade team, as they play for glory in the 2025 NRRRL Grand Final.The coach of the side that last played in a Grand Final in 2004, Owen King, has called for the town to get behind the 2025 Marist Brothers Rams by painting the town blue and gold."Back in the days when we were in the Grand Final in 2004 and before that, the town would get decorated. You know, a lot of shops had put blue and gold stuff in their windows. So hopefully that happens a bit this week," Owen told the Lismore App."The crowd support has always been good. I remember in 2004 the Mullumbimby ground was packed with Marist Brothers supporters. They all travelled up there. We had some tremendous support over the years."The Rams have not only secured their first Grand Final in 21 years, but they are hosting it this Sunday afternoon (September 14) at Oakes Oval after top-of-the-ladder Cudgen lost to Murwillumbah on Sunday.On Saturday afternoon, the Rams scored a convincing win over Bilambil, 20-6, to put them into the 2025 NRRRL Grand Final and have a chance at hosting the ultimate game at home as the Rams look to break a 22-year drought.It is not just one Lismore Rams side into Sunday's Grand Final, the Ladies League Tag defeated Cudgen 12-10 to also secure a Grand Final birth.It has been a long time between drinks for the first-grade male Rams side. In 2004, they lost to Mullumbimby 14-12, a year after climbing the summit in 2003, having defeated South Grafton 42-41 to hoist the premiership trophy.The 2003 winning side was filled with some famous names:Mark SivwrightBrett SpearsPaul LattaScott McKinnonNiko VakararawaDavid KrauseBrent PetersonShaun CoeAdam MayesTim TredigoDes MaherShannon CameronLuke CampbellPaul RobinsonSimon AndrewsJames AubussonNick Henry(The 2003 Marist Brothers Rams Premiership side. The last time the club held the premiership cup aloft. Photo: supplied)If the Rams can get over the line on Sunday, it would be a highlight for the Krause family.David Krause captained the 2003 premiership side, and his son, Mitchell, is the captain of the 2025 Marist Brothers Rams. History beckons on Sunday.While the Rams players hit the training track on Crozier Field this week, Lismore can give the side a lift by decorating shops and homes in the famous blue and gold colours and turn up on Sunday afternoon. There is nothing like a home-ground advantage.

Popular local builder Joel Jensen is Lismore through and through. It is hard to find someone more passionate about the Marist Brothers Rams or Lismore's future growth.The family company, Joel Jensen Constructions (JJC), is co-owned by Joel and his wife, Brittany. They started in 2015 and, until recently, were operating out of a rented premises on Elliot Road, South Lismore.Joel loves South Lismore, so he and Brittany bought a block of land a few hundred metres towards town, still on Elliot Road, so they could build a purpose-built office and operating complex. That was about five years ago."We love the South Lismore business community over here, it's just top shelf, filled with great people, and it's sort of central for our crew and all that sort of thing. We actually had another plan designed, and it got approved by council the day before the 2022 flood. So, everything happens for a reason.Like everyone in the Lismore basin, the Jensens lost a fair amount of money down the Wilsons River. They spent the first two years helping Lismore rebuild and getting people and businesses back on their feet before thinking about finally building their new premises. The fact was that now, the design and the build had to change thanks to the size of the 2022 flood."After rebuilding everyone's places and seeing what worked and what didn't work, after 2017 and doing it again, in 2022, we just thought we'd probably do this a bit smarter, and try and build something that hasn't been done before, which was a bit exciting, actually."We worked with Scott Davis, a local draftsman designer, and then Anthony at Alderson and Associates in Clunes. We put our heads together to come up with something different. We wanted a space for us to grow as a company and as a family. We want to show people that we're here for the long haul, I suppose, and to show a bit of positivity. But then also, I wanted to try and teach our kids a bit of resilience too, that we don't always have to tuck the tail and run. Let's try to use our melon a bit and try to figure out a way to build back smarter, build back better.In determining how they were going to build the JJC building, the architects and Joel had to deal with the famous Lismore pug soil."We've got pretty ordinary ground conditions over here. When we've done some soil testing, there's no bearing capacity for a fair way. So, we needed to design something that would float. We sort of went back to old-school building methods a bit and designed a raft slab that basically floated."From that, we used a lightweight structural steel design. So when we've done a lot of our flood loading and flood mapping, we basically have to make sure that one, it stays here, but two, it can withstand a flow of water. We know it's going to flood again, so we had to work with that. We sort of designed it so it can cop that flow of water."And then we wanted to use some products that we don't have to rip out after every flood that comes into the building. I demolished that much stuff from the flood, it was devastating. It really didn't need to happen."So, from all this, all the times working with the hygienists, I thought, right, what's all the stuff they're pulling us up on and all the stuff that they've been telling everyone to pull out? We'll use none of that. We basically went with structural steel, aluminium, glass, concrete, hardwood timber, and then we found this product called SipForm, which is now getting manufactured locally, out of Murwillumbah."When I reached out to them about using it here, they had never done anything with their products like I was proposing here. So rather than have your traditional structure, you know, your wall frame, the insulation inside it, like your insulated batts, your wall lining both sides, even if it is a water-resistant wall lining, if the water goes in and fills your cavity, from working with all the hygienists, you've got to strip the wall off, pull all the insulation out, clean it out, let it air out, put it all back on. You've got waste, you've got rebuild costs, you've got downtime.(This is what SipForm looks like inside and out)"This new product is specially designed foam. It's actually water-resistant, mould-resistant, and fire-retardant. And then it's got an FC (fibre cement cladding) wall lining on the inside and outside. We've actually chosen to go a different cladding on the outside, being colourbond in some spots, and then use, like a feature cement cladding, just to show different ways you can present it."So, basically, the way we've built this, when the water comes through, we'll open up the doors, open up the roller doors at the back, lift out our tables and chairs that we've got. Other than that, everything else is pretty flood-resistant. We'll just let the water go through, have a couple of stubbies, let it go down, hose it out, and play on.Joel mentioned that there will still be downtime as they clean up following a flood, but it will be up to a week, not four weeks plus, and involve two to three people, not twenty."It's still going to be a pain in the ass, like, we're still going to have mud and stuff, but we're not stripping stuff out. We're not throwing stuff on the skip again. We're not throwing money away."As you would expect, all the main electrical boards, water heaters and air conditioners are on the second level, well out of reach from most floods. The second floor of the new JJC building has been built in a more conventional way. The floor level is around 13.8 metres, so it will take another February 28 2022, for the floodwaters to enter that level.(The offices in JJC are on the second floor, out of reach of most floods)One of the main reasons for the conventional build was to demonstrate that there is no visual difference in the look between the flood-resilient lower floor and the conventional build."We wanted to show that you don't have to go flood resilient and go ugly. We can still make it presentable, we can still make it feel homely, because whether it's a business or a home, you still want your building to have a bit of life and a bit of character. I'm pretty excited about it, to be honest. We love it. It's been a long time coming. It has been a hard slog, but we're really proud of what we've created.When most of the buildings in South Lismore are being demolished or relocated, it's refreshing to see a brand new building in that landscape. It is a sign of what Lismore's future will be, and in particular South Lismore, which is likely to be more light industrial. Joel has had some local feedback already."A lady pulled in, and wasn't even asking about work, but just pulled in and said it's so nice to see something new going up, when everything else around here is getting pulled down. I'd never thought about it like that. It was nice to hear that we are leading the charge for the area."We've gone through that hard stage of the flood, and this is like a new beginning. It might sound silly, but it's sort of how it feels. We can put the flood behind us, throw the revision mirror in with it, and let's kick on."When you drive by JJC on a Friday afternoon and the team are on the deck having a few beers, give them a toot and a wave. And if you are interested in the SipForm flood-resilient product, pop in and have a look. JJC is at 52 Elliot Road, South Lismore. It provides another example of how a flood-affected city like Lismore can, and is, building back better.(Joel Jensen at the front doors to the new JJC building in South Lismore)

Anyone who drives along Tweed Street, Dunoon Road and Alexandra Parade in North Lismore would know it is in diabolical condition, especially Alexandra Parade near the viaduct around the showgrounds.It is not only a necessary road for our villages in the north, such as The Channon, Dunoon and Modanville, it is well used for people using the Lismore Showgrounds for annual events, like Gemfest, the Lismore Show and now Primex in 2026, plus the weekly Farmers Market, speedway and go-kart club.We can add the cattle sale yard trade each week, the pending construction of the new Richmond River High School, and the 85 lots to be built at the North Lismore Plateau as part of the Resilient Lands Program.There is no doubt it needs a permanent fix, as patch jobs only help in the short term before further rainfall and traffic bring it back to a dangerous condition.Lismore City Council are preparing a grant application for the Federal Government for up to $5 million to implement a concept plan they have developed for the three road corridors.To give the application more chance of success, Council want the community to get behind it and complete a short online survey. If Council can present an application with over 1,000 signatures, it may just tip the approval scales in its favour, and ahead of the many other council's looking for road funding.“There is no sugar-coating this. These are among the worst two roads in our local government area, and the disaster funding we received after the 2022 flood, doesn’t go far enough for the work that is needed,” Mayor Steve Krieg said.“Dunoon Road connects the communities at The Channon, Dunoon and Modenville with Lismore. In 2023, there were an average of 3,038 daily traffic movements, with 7.7% of them heavy traffic.“This will only increase when Richmond River High is opened and the North Lismore Plateau adds hundreds of new housing lots to the area.“I know that the community just wants our roads fixed. So do I, and that’s why we are asking the community to tell the Government how bad these roads are. Our rate base is simply not enough for Council to pay for the additional work.“We will be completing some works around the Showground ahead of the Primex Field Days in May, but simply fixing the potholes is no longer a sustainable option.”The proposed project will upgrade Tweed Street from Terania Street intersection through to the second roundabout as part of the North Lismore Plateau development.Specifically, Tweed Street and Terania Street intersection to be upgraded; new shared path along Tweed Street; Tweed Street to be widened and upgraded; Lake Street entrance to be upgraded and sealed; Alexandra Parade/Tweed Street/Dunoon Road intersection to be upgraded with a roundabout; provisions for a future carpark on the south-west corner of Tweed Street / Alexandra Parade to be designed; Alexandra Parade to the viaduct upgrade – eastern side; Alexandra Parade to end of cattle sale yards to be upgraded and sealed; Dunoon Road to the second roundabout to be upgraded; Dunoon Road third roundabout and shared path along Dunoon Road.Council's Manager of Road Planning, Lyla Nolan, talked about the lack of lane delineation, lack of parking, the lack of a road verge, and the lack of a footpath for people who park on Tweed Street and walk along the road to the showgrounds. Dunoon Road is also designated as the last road exit in the event of an emergency."This is marked as the last road out at the northern end, where the third roundabout is at this stage, we're looking to see whether we can raise the road there. There would be flood modelling that would have to be undertaken as well, but it could just be some upsizing of some culverts up that end again, having the shared path that goes from the top end of the project all the way down."Locals know only too well that the social and economic impact of fixing the roads at the Tweed Street/Dunoon Road corridor would be huge. Everyone can increase the chance of success for the Federal Government grant application by taking the short 5-minute survey by clicking here.

As part of National Threatened Species Day, Southern Cross University (SCU) announced it has successfully made the first-ever release of captively reared mountain frogs in a remote area of Gondwana Rainforest near the NSW/Qld border.The species - the Red and Yellow Mountain Frog (Philoria kundagungan) – were successfully reared as part of the University’s Project GRASP (Gondwana Rainforest Amphibian Survival Program) before being returned to a secret location yesterday in the Tooloom National Park and released into a predator-free field enclosure.“The day marks a significant milestone in a decade-long research program to save the Mountain Frogs from extinction,” said SCU’s Project GRASP lead, Associate Professor David Newell. Together with Research Fellow Dr Liam Bolitho, the pair collected eggs and adults from the field and have been raising these in captivity since December 2021 and, in a world first, have managed to get them to successfully breed.(Associate Professor David Newell in the GRASP laboratory. Photo: Elise Derwin)“These frogs have a very specialised breeding biology, laying a small number of eggs in a burrow where the tadpoles develop from fertilised eggs without ever having a free-swimming tadpole stage,” said Professor Newell. “The tadpoles feed entirely from the yolk of the egg sack and then metamorphose into baby frogs about 2-3 mm in length. They are incredibly vulnerable. These ones took about four years to reach maturity.”The Threatened Species Commissioner, Dr Fiona Fraser, praised the efforts of SCU’s Project GRASP team.“The Mountain Frog is one of the 110 priority species in the Australian Government’s Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032. This project is a great example of applied research being put into on-ground conservation action to save one of Australia’s most endangered frogs,” Dr Fraser said.“We are proud to support the team through the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species program, and delighted to see the ongoing partnerships and engagement to protect this species. The ability to establish new populations and supplement existing populations from individuals bred in captivity is a significant milestone for the Mountain Frog.”The Red and Yellow Mountain Frog (Philoria kundagungan) occurs in small patches of mountain top rainforests around NSW’s Tooloom and Koreelah National Parks and across the border into Queensland’s Main Range National Park.(Assoc Prof Newell releasing the frog)It burrows in the mud within headwater streams and permanent soaks found in upland rainforest. The only way to detect this frog is when the male calls.The Mountain Frog requires continually high moisture levels provided by a process called ‘cloud stripping’ and cool temperatures. Because these frogs cannot move far and are restricted to small areas of mountain top cloud forests, their populations have been hit particularly hard by climate change.“We have witnessed localised extinctions in this species in recent decades as a result of climate change,” said Dr Bolitho.Dr Bolitho has been using automated acoustic recorders to undertake long-term monitoring of Mountain Frogs in an effort to help inform their conservation management.“The Black Summer fires of 2019/2020 impacted 30 per cent of their habitat and our field monitoring revealed declines and disappearances at fire-affected sites,” said Dr Bolitho.At the same time, an emerging threat to the frogs has been the proliferation of feral pigs within northern NSW rainforests. Pigs can destroy an entire population of mountain frogs within a matter of days. In response, NSW NPWS staff have been conducting targeted trapping in several rainforest reserves and have also protected some important frog sites with fencing under the Assets of Intergenerational Significance Program. Landholders can help by reporting new sightings of pigs in adjoining properties to Local Land Services or National Parks staff. To commemorate the release of the Mountain Frog, Southern Cross University’s team of researchers, in conjunction with Githabul Elders, WWF Australia, NPWS staff and Threatened Species Commissioner Dr Fiona Fraser, gathered at Tooloom National Park on Saturday, September 6.With funding support from the NSW Government via the Saving Our Species program, WWF Australia and the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species Program, the Mountain Frogs were reared in a specially designed captive husbandry facility at SCU’s Northern Rivers campus in Lismore.

Free mental health and wellbeing services are now available to the community at Southern Cross University Health Clinics until the 5th of December, offering support to those in need. With no fee or referral required, community members can bypass lengthy waitlists and access mental health and wellbeing services delivered by student practitioners, all under the supervision of senior, highly experienced health professionals. Dr Carrie Thomson-Casey, Lecturer and Clinical Psychologist, and Academic Lead of the Mental Health and Wellbeing services at Southern Cross University Health Clinic, said the program addresses a critical need, with many people waiting months to see a mental health professional. “We’re committed to offering free, accessible, and multidisciplinary support services to our community,” Carrie said. “With no wait times and a compassionate team of supervised student practitioners, we’re here to help people take the first step toward better mental health and wellbeing.” The launch of this free service couldn’t come at a better time, with figures showing 20.4% of Australians put off mental health care in 2024 because of the cost (National Mental Health Commission, 2025). Open to adults aged 18 and over, the clinic is designed to support people navigating challenges, from the cost-of-living crisis and extreme weather to the everyday stresses of life. Operating in person at the Gold Coast and Lismore campuses, and online via Telehealth from Coffs Harbour, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Clinic offers appointments for up to four months of regular sessions, providing reliable, ongoing care. In addition to mental health and wellbeing services, the University’s on-campus Health Clinics offer a wide range of other low-cost allied health disciplines, including exercise physiology, osteopathy, speech pathology, occupational therapy and naturopathy. Please note services vary between campuses. Bookings can be made by contacting the Gold Coast clinic on (07) 5589 3252, the Lismore clinic on (02) 6626 9131, or the Coffs Harbour clinic on (02) 6626 9131, or by emailing clinic@scu.edu.au. Note: This service is not suitable for acute mental health disorders, people in acute crisis, or those requiring intensive drug and alcohol support. In accordance with the Code of Conduct, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Clinic is not available to current Southern Cross University staff or students. Current SCU students can access free 24/7 mental health support by calling 1300 782 676 and current SCU staff can access assistance through the EAP Assure program on 1800 808 374.