3.2. Recovery

Learning, sharing and cultural experiences with our First Nations Peoples

Demand for affordable employment land and transport logistics to support industrial development

Internet and telecommunications connectivity and options to work and learn remotely

Growing health and aged care sector, including the Grafton health precinct

Justice, including the new Clarence Correctional Centre at Lavadia, 12.5km south-east of Grafton

Growth in hospitality and tourism

Continued primary production and growing Agri-food economy

Supporting the recovery of our community and the environment from the recent bushfires is a focus for Council. Since July 2019 approximately half of our Council area has been burnt (548,698 ha out of a total 1,044,996 ha). This has come on top of severe drought, and followed by some flooding and further damage. This has caused significant impacts to individuals, families and communities across the valley, particularly farmers, small business and the villages of Nymboida, Rappville, Ewingar and many, many rural areas.

Improving our resilience to future disasters, including bushfire, flood and other natural hazards requires a strategic approach to land use planning, and collaborating with the community and all relevant agencies.