Yesterday, the NSW Government introduced new laws into NSW Parliament to give NSW Police and the courts stronger tools to interrupt youth offending earlier and keep communities safe, including long-overdue reforms to the way doli incapax operates.These reforms address a major gap where some children are engaging in offending that puts themselves and others at risk, yet face no consequences, intervention or support to stop the cycle of reoffending.The Government will improve the ability for prosecutors to rebut doli incapax – the legal presumption that children aged 10 to 13 lack capacity to be criminally responsible.The Government will also strengthen and modernise the Young Offenders Act 1997 to provide NSW Police and courts with additional tools to respond to youth offending.The Government says it understands the community’s concerns about youth crime – especially in rural and regional NSW – and continues to take strong action to improve community safety."While there is still work to do, we are seeing encouraging signs. The June 2025 BOCSAR quarterly update on NSW Recorded Crime Statistics revealed that, in the two years to June 2025, young people proceeded against to court declined significantly by 12.3 per cent in regional NSW."Putting doli incapax into legislation for the first time in NSWThe Government will change the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987 to put the current doli incapax test into law and give courts clearer rules for deciding whether a child understood their actions were seriously wrong.To rebut doli incapax and secure a conviction for children aged 10 to 13, prosecutors need to prove the child knew their actions were seriously wrong.Following a High Court decision in 2016, convictions fell from 76 per cent in 2015-16 to just 16 per cent in 2022-23.Some other states with doli incapax codified in legislation did not show a similar decline.Earlier this year, the NSW Government commissioned an independent review into doli incapax amid concerns about its operation. This was undertaken by State Parole Authority Chair and former Supreme Court Justice, the Honourable Geoffrey Bellew SC, and former NSW Police Deputy Commissioner, Mr Jeffrey Loy APM.The independent review included a recommendation to codify doli incapax.The Government will amend the Children (Criminal Proceedings) Act 1987 to legislate the current common law threshold for rebutting doli incapax, with new mandatory considerations for courts. This will give prosecutors and courts clearer guidance about how to rebut doli incapax.The changes will ensure courts must consider what the child is alleged to have done, and the surrounding circumstances, when deciding if the child knew their conduct was seriously wrong.For example, this would allow prosecutors to point to steps taken to plan or conceal the crime.The reforms will also make it clear it is open for the court to find doli incapax has been rebutted on the facts and circumstances of the alleged offending alone – without or despite other evidence.The legislation will be complemented by additional training for agencies regarding the legislative reform.Giving NSW Police and courts more tools to intervene earlier – before offending gets more seriousThe Young Offenders Act 1997 will also be amended to expand access to important intervention and diversionary measures for children.Early intervention is critical because it gives young people a chance to change course before their behaviour becomes more serious or entrenched.Currently, young people need to admit the offence to be eligible for these diversion options.These diversion options can include formal cautions or youth justice conferences, which can link to behaviour change programs, mental health counselling or drug and alcohol rehabilitation to address underlying drivers of offending.Under these changes, children will be able to access diversionary options if they make a statement that they do not deny, or admit, the elements of the offence and the time and place of the offending.The review into doli incapax found that diversion is likely to be the best response for less serious offending by 10-13-year-olds, and that constraints on access to diversion should be addressed.For young people who commit less serious offences, diverting them away from court has been found to reduce future offending.Eligibility for diversion does not guarantee diversion – NSW Police and courts will retain discretion to charge and convict if the offending is inappropriate for diversion. This gives authorities another tool in their fight against offending.The Government will also begin consideration of a voluntary diversionary pathway for children who interact with police and the justice system, as well as a mandatory treatment pathway for high-risk children.Working hard to build safer communitiesThe Government’s reforms build on significant investments to address youth crime, including:$23 million to continue and expand targeted response in Moree, Tamworth and Kempsey and support young people on bail.Introducing and extending a strict bail test for young people accused of repeat car theft and break and enter offences.Criminalising performance crime through a new ‘post and boast’ offence.$26.2 million to increase community safety in the regions announced last year.More than $100 million in additional youth justice funding.Ongoing NSW Police efforts under Operation Soteria and Operation Regional Mongoose.Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said, “These reforms are about stepping in earlier, giving police and the courts clearer tools, and making sure young people who are putting themselves and others at risk don’t simply fall through the cracks.“For too long, the system has left a gap where some children were offending without any real consequence, support or intervention. That isn’t good for those young people and it certainly isn’t good for the community. “These changes are practical, responsible and designed to stop a pattern of behaviour before it becomes entrenched.”Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said, “Police are doing everything they can to keep communities safe. They are in the community every day, not only arresting offenders but working with kids to steer them onto the right path.“We all want our community to be safe and better outcomes for young people, but police can’t do this alone – which is why we’re announcing this reform.“We're expanding the Young Offenders Act to give more kids access to diversionary options to help steer them away from a life of crime.“This builds on the Minns Labor Government’s substantial investments to address youth crime. We are working hard to support communities and break this cycle of offending.”Minister for Youth Justice Jihad Dib said, “Part of our work to reduce youth crime across the state includes investing in appropriate community-led interventions to ensure young people at risk of criminal involvement get the right supports at the right time to keep their lives on track.“There’s not a one size fits all approach when it comes to diverting young people away from the youth justice system. We will work with communities, the police, courts, community service providers and Youth Justice NSW to help young offenders change their behaviour and keep communities safe.”Attorney General Michael Daley said, “These important, considered reforms will ensure doli incapax operates in the best interests of children and the broader community. It will also allow for the presumption to be applied more consistently by police and the courts.“Importantly, it will make clear the circumstances of the alleged offending must be considered by the courts when determining if the presumption has been rebutted.“The reforms to the Young Offenders Act will also ensure police have more tools for young people to be engaged in diversionary options where appropriate.“We do not want to a situation where children are left without any intervention when charges are dismissed or withdrawn, only to come back before the courts because they were not supported to change their behaviour. “That’s why we are investing in intervention and diversion measures to break the cycle of youth offending and keep communities safe.”

Lismore’s Carols in the Heart is set to return bigger than ever on Saturday 6 December, with this year’s event moving to Crozier Field for a more interactive and family-friendly experience. The new location offers better acoustics, more space and the chance for audiences to get closer to the performers.Mayor Steve Krieg says the team has gone all-out after last year’s cancellation. “We’re right here at the home of entertainment in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. On the 6th of December, we’re going to have the biggest and best Carols in the Heart, headlined by none other than Rachael Beck,” he said. “Last year we had a massive hailstorm, but this year we’ve gone all out. It’s going to be exciting.”Rachael Beck, speaking from Sydney during rehearsals for a new play, says she’s thrilled to come home for the event. “It’s so wonderful to be invited to celebrate the Christmas season with my homeland. I don’t often get to do that,” she said. “This area breeds the most wonderful, eclectic, strong performers, so I’m excited to hear everyone play and sing as well.”Rachael plans to perform Christmas favourites with a full band and dancers, and she says she’ll be bringing plenty of humour to the stage. “People will be able to get up close and personal, so I might get a couple of audience members up to ask about their favourite Christmas recipes or funny Christmas Day stories.”Lismore City Council Event Officer Gavin McKean says this year’s line-up brings together some of the region’s most-loved performers. “We’ve got local Lismore person and renowned music artist Luke Vasella, who has played our carols for years,” he said. “We’ve also got the Isabella A Capella Choir, Bunny Racket, and Hillbilly Shank, who will put a bit of a funny twist on the carols. And of course, Santa will be making a few surprise appearances during the afternoon and at the end of the night.”The event will also feature food trucks, drinks, kids entertainment and a major laser light show to close the night. Council has shifted the event from a Sunday to a Saturday for the first time to make a full day of Christmas activities in the CBD. Families can explore local shops, visit Santa’s Wonderland for photos, and then head to Crozier Field for the evening program. “It really is a family-friendly event,” Mayor Krieg said. “Shop local, support local, get your Christmas shopping done, get your Santa photos, and then finish it off with the best carols - probably in Australia.”He says the event is an important moment for the community. “So many people are doing it tough at the moment. This is a free event where families can relax, take a breath and enjoy our beautiful region. It’s a chance to be together as a community.”Carols in the Heart is just one of several events bringing Christmas cheer to Lismore this December:Shop, Spin & Win – Spend over $30 in an independent Lismore store during December 2025 for your chance to spin and win.Santa’s Wonderland – From 5 December at the Lismore Regional Gallery. Photo bookings essential.Pawtraits – Christmas photos with your pets at The Quad on 6, 13 and 20 December.Elf Hunt – Explore Lismore businesses throughout December to spot hidden elves and win prizes.More information is available at xmasinlismore.com

There was a mixed bag of prices after last night's Resilient Homes program buyback auction at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah.The bidding was hot and high early, with a 3-bedroom character home purchased for $125,000, before settling to the extent that Darren paid $320 for a 4-bedroom Union Street home for a bargain $320. And that wasn't the cheapest house on the night, Alex put his hand in his pocket and bought 11 Simmons Street, North Lismore for $50."I'm delighted," Alex told the Lismore App after completing his paperwork. He wouldn't be drawn into where the house was going or what it was being used for; however, Darren was willing to talk about his purchase."I reckon I got the bargain of the night, actually," Darren said, "My wife and I are going to relocate it and we're going to live in it."Darren and his wife currently live on the Gold Coast, but their plans are to live in Grafton.(Another large group of eager buyers at last night's auction)"My wife's originally from Grafton, so more than likely we will put it back down in Grafton, around Water View Heights, that sort of area. We're going to build our dream home."The dream home is for a large family; seven children between the ages of 6 and 16. What makes it even more affordable is that Darren is a carpenter, and his wife is also a tradie."We do up other people's houses, and we don't have one ourselves. We have seven kids, so we've been struggling with renting for almost 10 years now. So, to actually own our own home is going to be amazing."We'll probably add another two bedrooms, maybe three. I think six should be enough. We actually had this dream of buying a relocatable house about six years ago in South East Queensland, but the cost was just so prohibitive, so we sort of struggled through as renters for that period of time. Then I heard about this one."Darren is no stranger to Lismore, as he worked on public housing renovations following the major 2001 flood."We did repairs and maintenance on six properties in Lismore. So, we know the area and we know the houses. We've got an affiliation with the area, and we feel for the people and place, because we spent over 12 months down here."Sharon was another who felt she got a bargain at last night's auction. She purchased another Union Street house for $2,000.Sharon and her husband Mark have a farm in North Lismore. This will be the second dwelling on their property for their son to live in when he moves back home from Brisbane to study the new Veterinary course at Southern Cross University next year.You may be wondering why some of the house prices have been so low in the last two auctions, Murwillumbah and Lismore. It may have something to do with the fact that there were no multiple bidders last night. What has felt like house removal companies buying multiple properties to on-sell at previous auctions did not occur at the Workers Sports Club. That left many mum and dad buyers very happy as they exited the building, with only a tiny hit to the budget and loads of planning to get stuck into.The next NSW RA house buyback auction will be on Tuesday, December 2 at 6pm back at the Lismore Heights Sports Club, when a further 12 homes will go under the hammer.The viewing dates are Thursday, November 27 and Monday, December 1. You can check out the times here. And you can view the properties by clicking here through First National Real Estate, Wal Murray.

Christmas shoppers at Lismore Square can make a difference in the community, now that the Kmart Wishing Tree has been launched.Following Emily Betts' (National Indigenous Employment Manager) acknowledgement of country, the 38th Kmart Wishing Tree was declared open as the traditional cake was cut, with pieces handed out to shoppers entering the store while Joy To The World was being played by Ian and Glenn from The Salvation Army Band, with vocals provided by Nerida.It was a festive start to the Wishing Tree, Australia's largest and longest-running gift collection drive that changes the lives of many families in Lismore and across the nation.Helen the Angel told those gathered, "We've distributed over 14 million gifts to children, adults, families and our senior community. Our customers can make a donation of cash, either in store or online or by leaving a gift here with us in store."The Salvation Army is the charitable organisation that plays a vital part in making the Wishing Tree a huge success by identifying those in need and distributing the presents."Last year, the Salvation Army in the Northern Rivers helped over 500 kids with toys," said Captain Philip Sutcliffe."We work closely with the Lismore store, the Ballina store and the Oceans Shores store, and they feed the toys into this local region. Without your support, there would be children who would wake up on Christmas Day with nothing under the tree."Thank you so much to the Kmart team, and all those who support the Kmart Wishing Tree. Each and every year, we truly appreciate it. It makes our job so much easier."Many people find it easy to buy gifts for young children (babies to 10 years of age), there are always plenty of options, and they are usually top of mind. Linda Williams is the Wishing Tree Coordinator. She said there are other needy recipients who are not at the forefront of people's minds.(Captain Donna Sutcliffe from The Salvos, Helen the Angel and Emily Betts, the National Indigenous Employment Manager from Kmart, cut the cake to launch the 2025 Kmart Wishing Tree)"We'd like gifts for the elderly as well. The elderly get forgotten a lot, and can often sit home alone on Christmas Day."Teenagers are another group that tends to be forgotten, or people find difficult to buy for."If you are unsure, gift cards are always an easy and effective way to donate," Linda said."We also have little Christmas baubles on the tree that you can take to the registers and do a $2 donation as well."Get into the Christmas spirit, Lismore and the Northern Rivers. We can make a big difference and put a smile on the faces of a large part of the community who are doing it tough because of the cost-of-living crisis.

A total of 18 projects will receive funding across NSW as part of Round Three of the Federal Government’s flagship Disaster Ready Fund (DRF), helping to make the state more resilient to natural hazards, including the Disaster Readiness program in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. NSW communities will be more resilient to increasingly frequent and intense severe weather events, with $69.46 million to be invested in projects including flood protection, levee infrastructure, emergency evacuation facilities, ecological restoration, and support for community resilience groups to strengthen disaster readiness across NSW.Funding of $37.18 million has also been committed by partners, bringing the total combined investment to $106.64 million.Australian Government funding of $46.12 million will go towards 10 infrastructure projects, and $22.3 million will go towards eight disaster resilience and risk reduction projects that will deliver enduring benefits for communities at risk of future natural disasters.The Albanese Government established the $1 billion Disaster Ready Fund to reduce risk and build resilience in communities across Australia.Other examples of successful DRF Round Three projects include:Narrandera Urban Stormwater Upgrade is improving flood protection for the community, with funding of $14.2 million.Raising the North Wagga Levee with matched funding of $9.1 million.Wytaliba and Weilmoringle Levees Enhancement and Pumping Infrastructure Project is strengthening levee infrastructure for local flood resilience in Brewarrina, supported by $8.4 million.Baryulgil Evacuation Centre and Community Resilience Project is providing vital facilities for emergency evacuation and resilience, with $2 million awarded.Mountains to Sea – Nature-based Ecological Restoration is rehabilitating 43 km and 128 hectares along NSW North Coast, helping to reduce disaster risk and build resilience to floods, storms and cyclones, with $2.7 million in funding.Enabling Regional Readiness will deliver tailored support to 60 volunteer-led resilience groups across the Northern Rivers, with $1.5 million provided.Deliver the Resilience Homes and Preparedness Program providing 2000 home assessments to the most at risk properties in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley, with just over $2 million in funding. Complete the design and construction for $2.1km of flood prone section of a vital emergency connection route for the town of Iluka with just over $3 million of matched funding. The full list of successful projects supported by DRF Round Three is available at Disaster Ready Fund.Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said, “This third round of investment builds on the work delivered by the Australian Government to make Australia more resilient to natural hazards.“People across NSW are no stranger to floods, bushfires, and severe storms – that’s why we established the flagship Disaster Ready Fund.“Round Three will benefit all 128 NSW local government areas and support state and local authorities including non-government organisations to protect themselves and their communities.“Crucially, Round Three brings our investment to make Australia more resilient through the DRF to $600 million – and I’d like to thank many of the project proponents for matching our funding.”NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin said, “This investment is about building safer, stronger, and more resilient communities right across NSW.”“Through the Disaster Ready Fund, we’re working with councils, communities and recovery partners to deliver practical projects that reduce risk and protect lives and livelihoods.”“From upgraded evacuation routes to strengthened levees and community preparedness programs, these projects are a vital part of our ongoing recovery and resilience effort.”This latest investment builds on the previous two rounds of the Disaster Ready Fund in NSW, with over $72 million in Australian Government funding awarded to 49 projects. Of these projects, just under half are in planning and design or pre-construction phase, with five projects already nearing completion or complete.

Police are appealing for information after two drivers were seriously injured in a crash on the Bruxner Highway at Irvington earlier this month.About 11pm last Tuesday, 11 November 2025, emergency services were called to the Bruxner Highway at Irvington – about 25km west of Lismore – following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District were told two vehicles collided head-on before crashing into a paddock.The drivers – two men aged 22 and 35 – were treated at the scene before being taken to Lismore Base Hospital, each in a stable condition.A crime scene was established and inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the crash commenced by officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit, assisted by Richmond Police District.As inquiries continue, police are appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.In particular, police would like to speak with the driver of a vehicle that was overtaken by another car on the Bruxner Highway shortly before the collision.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is managed on a confidential basis.The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

The next NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) buyback house auction is tonight at the Lismore Workers Sports Club in Goonellabah from 6pm.Ten more homes will go under the hammer with buyer expectations replicating the $1 price achieved at last week's Murwillumbah auctions $1 new record set at flood buyback house auction in Murwillumbah.From the start of the Resilient Homes Program (RHP), and especially when house demolitions were high-profile during the peak of the Pine Street squatters dispute, people have asked, "What is the criteria to relocate or demolish a buyback house?".There has been much community and political debate about the merits of the RHP itself. Its critics say it should never have been introduced, and that we should look at mitigation solutions and adaptability as a solution for future flooding. While others say the RHP is half pregnant. It removed half of the initial houses identified as at risk of major future flooding events due to funding.Critics also argue that every buyback house should be saved due to its hardwood construction, such as blackbutt and tallowwood.(An RA buyback house built in the 1970s or 1980s of hardwood timber)Sometimes, it is challenging to discern the truth from political rhetoric. The Lismore App set out to discover the criteria used by the RA so that the community would be aware of the decision-making process. We spent time with an RA assessor and a contracted building inspector to find the answers. The decision-making process involves builders and engineers, who are qualified professionals.Some of the criteria will surprise you.When a prospective buyer registers their interest in an RA auction, they can ask for a Property Condition Report. One is completed for all houses. The report includes a pre-inspection report (NSW Public Works), an Independent Assessment Report (builder), a valuation, a hazmat report (for asbestos and other contaminants) and an internal report from the RA.The simple first check of the property is, can it be moved for relocation?If a buyback property has a power pole in front of it, the simple answer is no, it cannot be moved. The cost of turning off the electricity supply to the area and removing the power pole, moving the house, and then replacing the power pole and reinstating the electricity supply is not cost-effective. In essence, it is a waste of taxpayers' money.Some houses can be relocated, but have electricity lines that are too low for the house to be moved. In this instance, it will be included in the Independent Assessment Report given to a potential buyer. It is up to the buyer to get the applicable costs from Essential Energy to have the power cut off and the lines lifted while the house is moved. The costs are borne by the new buyer.(An example of low electricity lines in an East Lismore buyback house being assessed for relocation)If a house has established trees at the front, so roadside, it is not considered for removal. Do you cut down trees to save the timber of a flooded house in a high-risk area? Younger, smaller trees will be considered based on other criteria.When houses are built close to each other, this poses another problem for relocation, especially if the house has to be cut in half. A metre or two of movement can threaten the house next door.(An example of a house that is very close to another building with established trees at the front of the property in North Lismore)Other criteria come into play. If the house is built on a concrete slab, it is not suitable for relocation. A more obvious demolition decision. Two and three-story homes are deemed non-relocatable for the RHP.Then there is the structural integrity of the house. As you can imagine, some houses moved off their foundations and suffered severe structural damage, such as twisted or warped weight-bearing support beams, and the house is not subsiding, revealing different floor levels that won't withstand the rigours of relocation.Another boils down to cost. A house may be able to be relocated; however, the cost to move it and then fully renovate it for habitation is more than the cost of a new build.Very few houses are small enough to be moved as they sit. Most need to be cut in half, or in some cases, three pieces, and transported to their new site, and put back together. Again, the relocation decision comes down to structural integrity and cost.Not everyone in the process agrees with each other. The mindset is to try to relocate every house, but as listed above, it is just not possible. The building assessment may recommend demolition; however, the RA assessor or, ultimately, the RA Director of Housing may question the decision and recommend relocation. The majority of the time, they are in sync, but there are exceptions. After all, it is good to have a difference of opinion.Some of the homes we walked through had warped walls and lifted floorboards. At first glance, you automatically think there is no way that this house can be relocated. However, upon a closer inspection, the assessors discover that the 'bones' of the house are straight and solid. The rest is cosmetic and can be easily repaired. Don't judge a book by its cover.A surprising revelation from the recent building assessments was the lack of mould in most of the houses. The assessors said they expected to find more in flood-affected houses that had sat empty for the last 12 months. Of course, anyone who had renovated their house had already dealt with the potential mould build-up in the house. More mould was found in the houses that were significantly damaged and sat vacant for two years.As you have read, approving a house for relocation is not a simple process. Structural integrity and the associated costs of relocating a house are two key factors in determining whether it will be relocated or demolished.

Without wanting to alarm any Lismore App readers, there are only five weeks until Christmas Day.You know that Christmas Day is closing quickly when the annual Lismore Anglican Christmas Pop Up shop opens its doors in the Lismore CBD.Already, the CBD has the Jingle Bell Xmas store with the big blow-up Santa in full swing, also on Woodlark Street, and more businesses are starting to add decorations on the windows or in-store for the festive season.At 9 o'clock this morning (17 November), in the old Lismore Cruise and Travel building on Woodlark Street, the same as last year, the doors will open for you to buy loads of Christmas gift ideas, such as cakes and puddings, homemade jams and pickles, local honey, fresh homemade cakes and biscuits, novelty craft items and an assorted array of inexpensive plants for the keen gardener.(The Anglican Christmas Pop-up shop volunteers from 2024)The motto for the Anglican Christmas Pop-up shop is “Home Sewn....Home Grown....Home Cooked”.Volunteers have been hard at work for a number of months baking, growing, making and bottling to create a shop full of delectable and useful Christmas gifts. You can definitely say that all goods have been made with love.Stephen Hall is the churchwarden for the Anglican Parish of Lismore. He told the Lismore App that the money goes to worthwhile causes throughout Australia."For example, Bush Church Aid supports ministry in remote Australia, and the Australian Board of Missions tends to be with indigenous people, and they also work overseas."The shop will stay open for 3 weeks, closing its doors on Friday, 5 December 2025.The Lismore Anglican Christmas Pop-up shop is open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm and Saturday 9am to 12noon.When the Christmas shop closes, the Anglican Church moves on to its Bethlehem Revisited story on the grounds of St Andrews Church at 10 Zadoc Street on the hill from 5:30pm.The Christmas Countdown is on......

The NSW Government and the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) are investing $15.6 million to deliver life-changing opportunities for young people living in regional and remote NSW.This funding commitment will provide young people experiencing the pressures of societal challenges and disadvantage access to PCYC’s youth programs.PCYC currently delivers different programs in 22 locations, including Walgett, Kempsey, Bourke, Broken Hill, Moree and Lismore, based on community need, BOSCAR data, local police information, and experience from PCYC’s Youth Programs team.Over the four-year partnership, PCYC NSW will deliver 278 life-changing programs across regional NSW.The state government is contributing $10 million to the partnership, while PCYC will co-contribute $5.66 million.Flexibility will be built into this model, allowing PCYC’s Youth Programs to transition to alternative locations as circumstances change and needs are evaluated.The PCYC Youth Programs to be delivered under the partnership are:EmployabilityFit for Work, Stepping Up and Job Ready – to prepare young people experiencing disadvantage or disengagement, capacity building for long-term, meaningful employment.Wellbeing & LeadershipGrowth-mindset Resilience Intervention for Teenagers (GRIT) – designed to build in young people resilience, independent decision making, and confidence.Culture & CommunityU-Nites, Fit for Life, Nations of Origin, and Indigenous All-Stars Sporting Pathways – focused on bringing young people together and encouraging them to understand and embrace culture and community, and connect them with their community with a sense of belonging.The Government support ensures PCYC programs in regional areas can move from uncertain and short-term funding to continuous program engagement, providing consistent care, connection and guidance for young people across multiple years.This new funding builds on the $271,950 announced in February 2025 for the National Rugby League and PCYC partnership, which is already delivering a Youth Empowerment Program in regional NSW, building resilience, self-confidence and encouraging community engagement. Established in 1937, PCYC NSW is a trusted youth charity delivering life-changing youth programs to more than 13,000 young people each year, as well as providing community sports and recreation, outside-of-school-hours care (OOSH), and driver education programs.  Further announcements about the new youth program locations will be made soon.Today’s announcement builds on work already underway, including:$12 million to continue place-based responses in Moree and expand responses in Tamworth and Kempsey. This will fund community-driven prevent and diversion programs that work for specific communities – not a one-size-fits-all approach.$6.3 million to provide intensive bail supervision and support for young people – also adding five extra caseworkers in Moree, Tamworth and Kempsey to support young people on bail.$5 million for a new Community Safety Investment Fund to back tailored, community-led programs to give kids a positive alternative to crime.The NSW Police Force is working around the clock to tackle youth crime and keep communities safe.Since March, over 300 individuals have been charged with over 1800 offences under Operation Soteria – an ongoing policing operation that focuses on repeat offenders and targets offences such as aggravated break, enter and steal, stealing motor vehicles and post and boast offences across regional hotspots.Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism, Yasmin Catley, said, “Regional youth crime is something we are determined to tackle head-on, and we’re in it for the long haul, which is why we’re giving communities the tools they need to make real and lasting change.“PCYCs provide positive spaces where police and young people can build trust and respect, adding to the tireless work our officers already do to keep communities safe. These are the kinds of relationships that can change a young person’s future.“I want to thank every police officer for their ongoing work with young people. No one understands better than our police how challenging this job can be. Their commitment makes our communities safer every single day.”Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said, “This multi-year funding commitment will be a game changer for young people across regional NSW.“This exciting partnership means we aren’t just investing in a single program in a single town, we are delivering benefits right across the state to support the health and well-being of our young people.“The NSW Government is giving the PCYC a solid foundation to work from in planning programs that will run across multiple years with momentum and make a real difference in young people’s lives.“By facilitating pathways to education, training, and employment through the PCYC’s programs, we are helping to break cycles of disadvantage and contributing to safer, more cohesive communities.PCYC NSW CEO, Ben Hobby, said, “We know young people across NSW face increasing social challenges relating to educational disengagement, unemployment, community connection and poor mental health. These issues are often interconnected and can, in some cases, contribute to anti-social behaviour. “These challenges are particularly acute in regional and remote NSW, where data shows youth unemployment remains significantly above the national average, and school attendance and retention rates continue to decline for young people experiencing vulnerability or at-risk situations.“Increasing access to PCYC Youth Programs in regional NSW is an essential frontline resource for early intervention that fosters positive relationships with Police, strengthens skills and creates pathways to employment for the rising generation. “Without targeted support, many young people risk falling into cycles of disadvantage, causing long-term social and economic consequences to the individual and their broader community. PCYC is uniquely positioned to break this cycle by cultivating capability, advancing agency, and ultimately revitalising regions through youth empowerment.”

Lismore City Council is marking the end of National Recycling Week by showing where local recycling goes, what residents can do to cut contamination, and how services are improving. In Lismore, kerbside collections have delivered 3,562 tonnes of mixed recycling for processing, plus about 200 tonnes of cardboard locally since the closure of Lismore’s Materials Recovery Facility in 2024. That equals roughly 231,299 full 240-litre bins of material.Those figures mean the Lismore Local Government Area, on average, has recycled 6.8 million milk bottles, 5.9 million aluminium cans and 2 million glass bottles. That is the scale of what residents have already delivered since 2024.This shows the system is working and why clear sorting at home matters.Since the 2024 closure of Lismore’s Materials Recovery Facility, mixed recycling collected at the kerb is transferred to Re.Group’s Materials Recovery Facility at Chinderah for sorting, while cardboard is processed locally by Richmond Waste. Recoverable material is then sent on to reprocessors, for the items to be made into new products.Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said it is a great opportunity to educate the community on how the system operates, and the positive recycling outcomes it delivers.“Our community takes recycling seriously and the results speak for themselves,” he said.“Lismore recycles at scale. We have collected 3,562 tonnes of mixed recycling and about 200 tonnes of cardboard. That is roughly 231,000 full yellow-lid bins. It shows households are doing the right thing and real material is being recovered.“Put simply, your effort shows up in the numbers. That haul is about 1,700 tonnes of paper and cardboard and 1,000 tonnes of glass, plus plastics, steel and aluminium. Cleaner sorting at home lowers costs and lifts recovery, and this week we are showing people how the system works from kerb to processor.”The good news continues for regular users of the Return and Earn bulk site at the Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre. It will close next week from Monday, 17 November to Saturday, 22 November for an upgrade, then reopen Monday, 24 November with a community BBQ. The works add a second singulator to create two service lines, plus clearer directions and better traffic flow so throughput lifts and queues fall. Acting Waste Operations Coordinator Kadijah Runge said National Recycling Week is about turning good intent into clear action and educating our community on how we recycle. “We are showing users of our waste system where Lismore’s recycling goes and giving residents simple steps that cut contamination and lift recovery,” she said.“This week, we are publishing via our social media channels myth busters, a what goes where tip, and a short explainer video from kerb to processor. The goal is fewer mistakes at the bin and more material back to work.“For tricky items, people can use Council’s A to Z guide and Planet Ark’s Recycling Near You. Those tools save residents guesswork, reduce costs and improve outcomes across the city.“Residents want proof that the system works. This week, we are laying out the pathway and the results so people can see the impact of their effort.”National Recycling Week is Planet Ark’s annual education campaign, established in 1996 and now in its 29th year. It focuses on practical actions so households and businesses reduce, reuse and recycle correctly.To keep up to date with recycling, or to download Council’s A to Z Recycling Guide, go to https://www.lismore.nsw.gov.au/Households/Waste-and-recycling/Bin-guide-what-goes-in-which-bin.

Richmond Riverkeeper, Kristin den Exter, has been recognised at the 2025 NSW Coastal Conference Awards, receiving honours in the Local Hero category for her outstanding contribution to river health, community collaboration, and coastal care.The annual NSW Coastal Conference, held this year in Ballina, celebrates the people and projects working to protect and restore the state’s coasts, estuaries, and river systems. The award acknowledges Kristin’s leadership through Richmond Riverkeeper and the Richmond RiverFest — a month-long celebration of culture, community and Country that connects people from the sea to the source.Associate Professor in History at Southern Cross University and fellow Richmond Riverkeeper, Adele Wessell, said “Kristin often asks, ‘If the river had a voice, what would it say?”. She has been listening to what the river is telling us her whole life, listening to the knowledge of Custodians and First Peoples and committing herself to a lifetime of working with the river with integrity and love in a way that inspires everyone around her.”“This award recognises the incredible collective effort of our community,” said Kristin den Exter. “From Elders and artists to scientists and volunteers, we’re all working together so that the rivers of the Richmond catchment can one day be drinkable, swimmable and fishable again.”Under Kristin’s guidance, Richmond Riverkeeper has become a leading voice for catchment-wide action, promoting education, citizen science, cultural renewal and environmental restoration across Bundjalung Country.Her work brings people together around shared care for Mamaang Balun – the Richmond River, inspiring both local and regional partnerships to heal Country and strengthen community resilience.The Richmond Riverkeeper initiative is supported by partners across the Richmond River catchment.

Residents in the Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle shires are being encouraged by NSW Health to visit their GP or local pharmacy to be vaccinated against the Japanese encephalitis virus before summer starts.NSW Health has said the Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been detected in Western, Northern and Southern NSW. Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle were added to the free vaccination list in April this year.JE is a serious illness spread to humans by infected mosquitoes. In NSW this year, five people have acquired JE, one from Northern NSW, and sadly, two of these people have died.In NSW, the JE virus vaccine is available for free for people aged two months or older who live or work (including volunteer deployments) in any of the defined high-risk Local Government Areas and are at risk of mosquito bites.A JE vaccine is available through local General Practitioners (GPs), Aboriginal health services and pharmacists. People should make an appointment and let the provider know it is for the JE vaccine, as they may require a few days' notice to order the vaccine. Once vaccinated, protection can take up to two weeks to develop.There is no specific treatment for JE. In some cases, JE can cause severe neurological illness with headache, convulsions, reduced consciousness and death.A NSW Health email said, "It is strongly recommended that everyone who lives or works in areas where there’s a high risk of catching Japanese encephalitis get vaccinated against the virus. "If you work with pigs, mosquitoes or in a laboratory where you could be exposed to the virus, you are in the highest risk category. "The Japanese encephalitis vaccine has been proven to be both safe and effective. The vaccine is available for free to everyone aged 2 months and older who lives or works in high-risk areas of NSW. Some providers may charge a fee for consultation or administration of the vaccine."Be ready before summer    "It can take 2 to 4 weeks for your body to develop a protective immune response to the virus once fully vaccinated, so we encourage you to get vaccinated as soon as possible."Have you already been vaccinated? Check with your GP or pharmacist if you require a booster dose. "Book an appointment with your GP, pharmacist or the Aboriginal Medical Service to discuss vaccination and to support others in your community to do the same." As many people will enjoy the great outdoors this summer and over the school holiday period, here are some simple actions you can take to protect yourself from mosquitoes:Apply repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times.Re-apply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Always apply SPF 50+ sunscreen first before applying repellent.Use repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions.Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear and socks.Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk.Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas).Cover windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps.Remove items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed.Protect infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges.While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net.

Today is the return of Lismore's signature Eat the Street food festival for the first time in four years. Another popular local event that has been on hiatus for the last seven years will make a return in 2026.Lismore & Villages Relay For Life is a bi-annual event, and it is back to raise money for the Cancer Council next year, the first time the physical event has been held since 2018. COVID-19 and the 2022 floods led to the much-loved charity event being placed on hold.In 2020, there was a virtual relay, and thanks to the generosity of locals, it raised nearly $99,000 for the fight against cancer.Registrations are now open for the 2026 Lismore & Villages Relay For Life. It will take place at Southern Cross University, East Lismore, on Saturday, 21 March 2026. Organised by passionate local volunteers, Lismore & Villages Relay For Life gives the community a chance to join forces in support of everyone affected by cancer, have fun at a community festival, and raise vital funds for Cancer Council’s world-class research, prevention, advocacy and support services. Relay For Life welcomes locals of all ages to partake in a fun-filled experience. Teams of friends, families, community groups and colleagues raise money in the lead up to Relay For Life, where team members take turns walking around a track to signify that cancer never rests, so neither do we.“For our first year back in Lismore since the floods and COVID, we are hoping to raise $60,000 for local Cancer Council initiatives such as our free Transport to Treatment program, supporting cancer patients across Lismore and surrounding communities, as well as legal and financial assistance to support local residents affected by cancer,” added Victoria Armstrong, Community Fundraising Specialist for Cancer Council NSW.(Relay For Life in 2018)Join the Relay For Life movement and register today at www.relayforlife.org.au/event/lismore-2026.

The Federal Government's proposed 80km/h unmarked default speed is being met with pushback from most regional bodies, and now the NSW Government.The state government's lack of support was welcomed by NSW Farmers. President Xavier Martin called it a common-sense response. Mr Martin said the proposal to cut speed limits on country roads to 80km/h was a “straw man” solution for road safety, and serious investment in regional roads and bridges was needed to solve the problem. “Band aid solutions won’t fix the problem of crumbling roads and bridges, or deal with the growing road toll here in the regions,” Mr Martin said. “Fixing the real driver of road trauma – that is, our ruined roads – is what will make a real difference. We need to get people home safely each day, and farmers need to be able to get their food and fibre to market safely as well.”This week, NSW Regional Transport and Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison made it “very, very clear... (that) the NSW Government does not support blanket speed zone reviews across NSW.”Mr Martin said safe, properly maintained roads were critical to safety, but so too were efficient, connected rail networks to take pressure off rural and regional roads. “Slowing us all down is simply a straw man solution, and if they’re going to ignore the real problems at play, we’ll never reduce our road toll,” Mr Martin said. “If you look down the track, we’ll all be crawling along while fresh food rots in the truck, all because governments no longer prioritise proper road repair and maintenance.“It’s not the speed limits that are the problem – they’ve been set for decades – it’s the fact that our roads aren’t as safe as they used to be.”

It looks like it's going to be a wet weekend for Lismore and the Northern Rivers, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM).The good news for those wanting to be part of the Eat the Street food festival on Keen Street and The Quad tomorrow (Saturday) is that the highest chance of rainfall is forecast for the evening, that is, after 6pm.On Sunday, the potential rainfall is in the morning and afternoon, so it could affect outdoor sports and activities. However, the range still involves a '0', so we may not receive any or very little rain.There is the chance of thunderstorms, possibly severe, tonight and across the weekend, mainly in the afternoon and evening. If they are severe, the Lismore App will send out a notification.This weekend is all about the return of Norco Eat the Street, after a four-year absence.Apart from some fabulous food flavours from all over the world and live music creating a vibrant atmosphere, there are a number of events you may be interested in seeing.The Pie Eating Competition gets underway at 12:30pm with the Mini Munchers Round. There are two divisions, the Kids Heat (Under 12) and the Teens Heat (13 to 17). Then at 1pm, there will be two rounds of the Great Pie Face-Off for Adults (18+).The Champion Chomp-Off will take place at 3:30pm with 1st prize of $300, 2nd prize $150 and 3rd prize $50, thanks to Annie's Country Bakery at Modanville.The other competition is the Barista Smackdown at the Benchtop Cafe. There will be five elimination rounds from 3pm, with the winner taking home $1000.For more details, check out the Eat The Street 2025 button on the front page of the Lismore App or via the website by clicking here. There you will find all the information you need at your fingertips.A reminder that Keen Street will be closed for 24 hours from midnight tonight to midnight on Saturday night.MARKETSThe Lismore Farmers Markets will get underway at 7:30 tomorrow morning. As well as the usual fresh fruit and veg, breakfast and tea & coffee, the CWA Evening Branch selling their famous Christmas cake, along with other homemade Christmas goods. Live music will be provided by the popular Luke Vassella.The Sunday markets are back at the Bowlo (Lismore City Bowling Club) at 171A Molesworth Street, Lismore CBD from 9am to 1pm. There are over 30 stalls selling an array of products from bric-a-brac to books, honey and ceramics.Also, on Sunday is the Lismore Free Market at 50 Brewster Street between 9am and 11am. Every item really is for free. There is no trading, bartering or selling of any products.LIVE MUSICIt's three days of live music at the Northern Rivers Hotel on Bridge Street, North Lismore this weekend.Dan Grace hits the stage tonight at 7pm, Saturday night will see Wear the Fox Hat play and the Sunday Session is by Ghostown from 3pm.Coming Up at the Lismore Workers ClubLismore Symphony Orchestra 29 NovemberThe Noughty Nineties Party featuring all your favourites like Blink 182, Shania Twain, Britney Spears, Robbie Williams and Beyonce. Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 7:30pmThe Ultimate Superstars of Country Friday, 6 February 2026Faulty Towers The Dining Experience Friday, 6 March 2026The Italian Tenors Sunday, 19 April 2026CHEAPEST FUEL PRICESFuel prices were steady across Lismore and Casino, but there have been some significant price increases in Ballina this week. For the first time in a year, Lismore is similar or cheaper than Ballina across the fuel range.Here is the list of the cheapest service stations:E10 is 176.9 at the Shell Reddy Express on Dawson Street, Lismore, 169.9 at the NightOwl Puma at 37 Johnston Street in Casino, and 174.5 at the Mobil and The Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 173.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 173.9 at The United and NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street in Casino, and 176.5 at the Metro on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 182.9 at the two Independents on Terania Street, North Lismore and the Liberty on Ballina Road, Lismore, 198.9 at the Independent at 169 Canterbury Street in Casino, and 187.5 at The Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 190.9 at the Liberty on Ballina Road, Lismore, 196.4 at the NightOwl Puma at 37 Johnston Street, Casino, and 196.5 at The Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 182.9 at the two Independents on Terania Street, North Lismore, 185.9 at The United and the Ampol Casino on Dyraaba Street in Casino, and 189.5 at Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

Already in mid-November, Christmas and the holiday season are rapidly approaching, which means gift buying, decorations, carols, and live theatre.The Lismore Theatre Company is bringing a different kind of dream to life at the Rochdale Theatre – one driven by the passion, dedication, and collaborative skills of a team of young people. “A Holiday Dream” isn't just a show; it's a statement of the power of the youth in our community.This production showcases the talents of Erika Dansie, 18, in the role of stage manager. Erika has stage-managed for "Robin Hood" and " Hall of the Mountain King". For Erika, "A Holiday Dream" has been a great experience for her to be involved with other stages of the production process as well, as she started her involvement during the audition process. Then there's Bree Thompson, 21, fresh off her acclaimed performance as Bob in "Blackadder." With barely a breath, Bree has jumped into the role of Producer, doing both Blackadder and A Holiday Dream back to back.(Photo: Elysha Mitchell)CiCi Poles, 18, as Assistant Director, is like the cast's dependable big sister, providing support and encouragement. The young actors love having her at rehearsals. Then there’s Jazz Stoltenberg, 16, who lent her choreographic skills to the show's final dance, while Phinn Bicchieri, 18, brought the main characters to life in the poster displayed outside the theatre.Guiding this team is Elysha, 29, directing for Lismore Theatre Company for the first time, who is enjoying the opportunity to nurture the talents of the children, youth, and young adults involved in "A Holiday Dream.""It's so beautiful to see so many young people working so effortlessly and collaboratively right now," says Elysha. "We've become one big family with so many inside jokes and stories. I'm sure these will be memories that will last a lifetime. I'll be celebrating my 30th with my entire cast and crew at the end of December. The amount of dedication & talent they each have is amazing!" "The cast and crew are excited for the community to see this show. We’ve got young cast members travelling from Lennox and Ballina twice a week for rehearsals as well as some local talent too. It’s an eclectic mix of young people who all love Christmas and are looking forward to getting you into the Christmas spirit. Come dressed up in something festive, bring the whole family and have some theatre fun this December." About the Show:Tim, a young boy with low self-esteem, avoids his family's holiday celebration and escapes into the world of his storybooks. Piper Pixie, a mischievous holiday elf, appears and encourages Tim to venture into Storybook Land to rescue Hansel and Gretel from the wicked witch, Little Red Riding Hood from the Big Bad Wolf, and Jack from the menacing giant. Through these daring rescues, Tim learns the power of courage and realizes that his fears are only figments of his imagination."A Holiday Dream" is an interactive and festive experience for the whole family, encouraging audience participation and even inviting everyone to dance along at the end.When you support "A Holiday Dream," you're not just buying a ticket; you're supporting the future of youth in our community.Event Details:• Dates: Dec 5th-7th and 12th-13th • Location: Rochdale Theatre, Lismore• Tickets: $20 or $15 for concession Purchase tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/DASHQ.

Australia Post is warning customers to be on high alert as scammers accelerate fake delivery messages and emails in the lead-up to Christmas.Scammers are taking advantage of the festive rush, targeting groups such as Facebook Marketplace users. They often pose as interested buyers and send links or QR codes via Messenger to fake ‘Australia Post courier service’ websites. These sites claim that payment will be processed online and that a courier will collect the item once payment is made, when, in reality, these fraudulent sites are designed to steal personal and financial information.This trend reflects a broader national issue with research from Australia Post¹ showing more than 90% of Australians have received a scam text or call, and nearly three-quarters reporting that scams most commonly impersonate shipping and parcel delivery services.Adam Cartwright, Australia Post Chief Information Security Officer, advised customers to track parcels through the official AusPost app and ignore any message requesting personal or payment information.“As the pre-Christmas sales ramp up and more Aussies are expecting deliveries, scammers are exploiting that anticipation and urgency to trick people into clicking fake links or handing over personal information.“If you receive a message asking for personal or payment details, you can be confident it’s not from us. In fact, the safest way to track your item is through the official AusPost app,” said Mr Cartwright.Key advice Download the official AusPost app and enable push notifications for parcel tracking. This is the most secure and reliable way to receive genuine delivery updates.Australia Post will never ask for personal or financial details via phone, text or email-including passwords, credit card, or bank details.Don’t click on suspicious links in text message or emails Australia Post is also seeing a resurgence of sophisticated phishing ahead of Christmas, including the global ‘Darcula’ operation, which rents scam toolkits to criminals that mimic trusted delivery brands. By sending messages via end-to-end encrypted channels such as iMessage and Rich Communication Services (RCS), Darcula can bypass traditional filters, making these scams harder to detect and block.To sign up for a free MyPost account, either visit https://auspost.com.au/receiving/mypost or download the AusPost app from the Apple Store or Google Play.For more tips on how to navigate parcel and delivery scams, visit the Australia Post website: https://auspost.com.au/ScamAlerts.

Lismore’s vibrant food and drink scene is set to ignite again as Norco Eat the Street makes its eagerly anticipated comeback tomorrow (Saturday, 15 November).The event will run from 12pm to 7pm along Keen Street and in The Quad precinct in the heart of Lismore’s CBD.As part of preparations, Keen Street (from Magellan Street to Woodlark Street) will be closed from midnight Friday, 14 November until midnight Saturday, 15 November to ensure a safe and festive environment.Pedestrian access will remain open throughout the setup and event, so you can still visit all the shops along the street. Keen Street is closed to vehicles, but not to people.Almost 40 food traders and 14 local drink suppliers will bring the very best of the Northern Rivers’ culinary scene to the event.You can expect a diverse mix of flavours, from gourmet BBQ and Asian street eats to Italian classics, vegetarian creations and decadent desserts.A dedicated “Quad Bar” area will feature craft beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and a reusable cup system in keeping with the festival’s sustainability goals.Interactive competitions and live entertainment will keep the crowd engaged and energised, including a pie-eating competition, a barista competition and live music. Check out more details on the Eat The Street 2025 button on the Lismore App or via the website. This event marks the return of Lismore’s signature food festival after a four-year hiatus, bringing together local producers, restaurants and the community to celebrate the city centre in style.It’s a great opportunity to walk the CBD, support local hospitality and enjoy a fun afternoon with friends and family.2025 EAT THE STREET DETAILS:When: Saturday, 15 November | 12pm-7pmWhere: Keen Street, Lismore (between Magellan Street and Woodlark Street) and the Quad precinct, Lismore.Street closure: From midnight Friday, 14 November until midnight Saturday, 15 November.More information: www.visitlismore.com.au/eatthestreet.

The NSW Government will immediately reduce the cost to farmers of undertaking a Drought Ready and Resilient Fund loan by reducing its interest rate by 1 per cent, following a review of the loan to look at options for broadening its uptake by farmers.The $250 million Drought Ready and Resilient Fund (DRRF) already offered low-interest loans up to $250,000 to assist primary producers prepare for, manage and recover from drought.The NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, called for the review after examining the uptake of the loan after nearly two years of operation and listening to feedback from farmers across the state, but especially in southern NSW.Normally the interest rates for the five-year and 10-year DRRF loans would today have been 4.98 per cent and 5.81 per cent respectively.However, to provide relief the loan rates will now be reduced by 1 per cent to 3.98 per cent for five-year DRRF loans and 4.81 per cent for the 10-year loans.The 1 per cent reduction will save a farmer around $7,000 over a five-year loan and $15,000 over a 10-year loan for the borrowed $250,000.Typically, commercial lenders in the market would offer rates of up to 10 per cent for similar-purpose loans.The interest rate that applies to a DRRF loan is set on the day the loan is drawn down and remains fixed for the life of the loan. For the DRRF loan, interest rates are indexed to NSW Treasury Corporation (TCorp) bond rates, which can vary from month to month.The Minns Government is reviewing the other aspects of the DRRF to improve what can be offered to farmers experiencing drought conditions or wanting to prepare for future drought settings, with a view to announcing further loan changes soon.The Fund is open to all farming businesses, including young farmers, new entrants to the industry, and those who have experienced increased off-farm income as a result of recent natural disasters.Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said, “Farmers have told me they don’t want a handout, they want a leg up, and reducing rates for this Fund will make sure these loans are more accessible for those farmers in need or planning to cover challenging times.“The Minns Government’s Drought Ready and Resilience Fund was set up to provide additional assistance to farmers and make available lower-rate loans than what people could get from other financial institutions. Following my review, we have seen how we can lower even further the interest rate.“We have listened and have reduced rates even further to ensure these loans are a better option for producers in drought-affected regions.“While rates may increase or hopefully decrease in the future due to underlying bond rate changes each month, the 1 per cent interest rate reduction for the Fund’s loans will remain in place.“The Drought Ready and Resilient Fund Loans now represent the most affordable loans of their kind on the market, delivering significant savings compared to any commercial lending alternative.