Key Worker Accommodation has been an ongoing issue for Lismore and the Northern Rivers for the last three years as the flood rebuild continues.

The NSW Government announced yesterday that it will invest $34.2 million in health worker housing in Northern NSW as part of the Key Health Worker Accommodation program.

Lismore, Grafton and Tweed are set to benefit, which will help attract, recruit and retain more healthcare workers. 

The $200.1 million program supports more than 20 projects across rural, regional and remote NSW.

The funding will secure approximately 120 dwellings across regional NSW, which includes the building of new accommodation, refurbishment of existing living quarters and the purchase of suitable properties such as residential units.

The four-year program will support the recruitment and retention of more than 500 health workers and their families by providing a range of accommodation options.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said, "The Minns Labor Government committed to investing in modern, sustainable accommodation options for key health workers who are the backbone of our regional, rural and remote communities. 

“Strengthening our regional health workforce is a key priority for our government, and this $34.2 million investment in accommodation will support attraction of key healthcare workers to Grafton, Lismore and the Tweed.

“The Key Health Worker Accommodation program will support Northern NSW Local Health District in continuing to provide high-quality health services to the community.”

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said, “This program is working to ensure our frontline health workers who require accommodation have access to modern, sustainable housing.”