Joint media release with the Hon Janelle Saffin MP
Murwillumbah's flood defence system is set to be strengthened, with work underway to upgrade stormwater pumps at Lavender Creek.
Funded through the Albanese Government's $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP), and delivered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the $5.6 million project will see a new pump station built that is offset from the existing creek.
The new structure will have the capacity to house two new flood pumps with sump dividers and flow-straightening bays to diminish the effects of non-uniform flow, as well as screening to stop debris buildup. The two new flood pumps will be able to pump 8m3 per second.
New electrical switchboard and controls, communications and telemetry will also be installed on an elevated platform to avoid the effects of future flood events.
This initiative is part of six flood mitigation upgrades in Murwillumbah, valued at $16 million in combined funding, under the NRRRP including:
- new pump system behind Dorothy/William Street
- new pump station on George Street
- new pump station at Lavender Creek
- upgrades to Wharf Street pump stations
- modification works at Alma Street
- earthworks at Quarry Road.
Work is expected to be completed on Lavender Creek pump station in February 2027 weather permitting.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain
"Communities across the Northern Rivers know all too well the devastating impact floods can have, which is why the Albanese Labor Government is investing in practical projects that help reduce risk and build resilience.
"Through our $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, we're working with the Minns Labor Government to deliver infrastructure that makes communities safer, stronger and better prepared for future floods.
"This upgrade to the Lavender Creek pump station will strengthen Murwillumbah's flood defence system, helping protect homes, businesses and critical infrastructure while giving the community greater confidence during severe weather events."
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot MP
"The Albanese Labor Government is delivering more than $5.6 million towards this project to upgrade stormwater pumps at Lavender Creek and boost flood resilience in Murwillumbah.
"As your your local Labor MP you can always count on me to deliver funding to help the North Coast build back better, and ensure we're more resilient to future events."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin
"This community knows better than most that during severe weather, reliable infrastructure is everything. Upgrading these pump stations gives Murwillumbah the capacity to handle heavy rainfall, protecting local homes and businesses while giving the community peace of mind.
"Projects like this show what can be achieved when federal, state, and local governments work hand-in-hand. By aligning our efforts across all three levels, we are ensuring critical flood mitigation projects move from planning to reality across the Northern Rivers.
"Local councils shouldn't have to tackle the immense challenge of disaster resilience alone. Through combined state and federal investment, we are equipping Tweed Shire Council with the funding and support needed to deliver essential infrastructure that safeguards our region for the long term."
Quotes attributable to Tweed Valley Mayor Chris Cherry
"This project is one of several major flood mitigation upgrades being delivered across Murwillumbah and demonstrates the commitment of all levels of government to building a safer and more resilient community.
"Together, these projects will help improve the performance of the town's flood defence system and support Council's ongoing efforts to reduce flood impacts wherever possible.
"We know there is no single solution to flooding, but investments like this are an important step towards making our community more resilient in the future."
