New housing project to support Eugowra’s flood recovery
The Minns Labor Government will deliver 20 new residential lots and essential community infrastructure in Eugowra through a $2 million investment from the NSW Government’s Regional Development Trust, supporting local economic growth and enhancing future flood resilience.
This initiative continues the Minns Government’s commitment to rebuilding regional communities impacted by natural disasters and creating a safer, stronger New South Wales.
The Cabonne Housing and Land Development Project will involve the acquisition of suitable land in the vicinity of Loftus Street, along with construction of critical infrastructure including water, sewer and electrical connections, stormwater systems, internal roads, footpaths, vegetation removal and landscaping.
This project provides a long-term future for local residents, giving families certainty about where they can live, ensuring children can stay in their schools, and helping the community continue to thrive.
Importantly, the new site reduces future flood risk by relocating residents from high-risk areas to safer ground, strengthening both safety and resilience across the region.
The investment will also help stimulate the local economy by creating jobs in construction and maintenance, revitalising the precinct, and fostering social cohesion.
The Minns Labor Government, through the NSW Reconstruction Authority and Cabonne Council, will deliver safe, sustainable housing that supports community recovery and builds resilience to future climate impacts.
Works to be delivered under the project include:
- Full construction of Loftus Street, Eugowra
- Installation of essential services including water, sewer, electricity, and telecommunications
- Roadworks, footpaths, and stormwater drainage
- Landscaping and public amenities
The 2022 floods caused widespread devastation across the Central West, with Eugowra among the hardest-hit communities, hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed, and many residents remain in temporary accommodation. Providing land for new homes will support people who have received a buyback under the Central West Resilient Homes Program to rebuild their lives locally.
The Regional Development Trust funds projects that make a tangible difference for regional communities, with all proposals reviewed by the Regional Development Advisory Council, an independent body ensuring regional voices are at the centre of government decision-making.
Further announcements from the Trust will be made in the coming months.
For more information, visit: nsw.gov.au/regionaldevelopmenttrust
Chris Minns, Premier of New South Wales said:
“This investment is about helping Eugowra recover, rebuild and thrive. We know this community has endured enormous hardship since the 2022 floods, and this project will give families confidence in their future.”
“By creating new housing on safer ground, we’re reducing future flood risk while helping to keep this tight-knit community together. It’s a smart investment that delivers both safety and opportunity.”
“I want to thank the Member for Orange, Phil Donato, for his advocacy and commitment to the people of Eugowra. We will continue to work with Phil to get this community back on its feet and ensure it’s stronger and safer in the years ahead.”
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:
“This project is about helping the people of Eugowra recover and rebuild the community and infrastructure to be stronger.
“By creating new residential lots and essential infrastructure, we’re giving the community the tools it needs to move forward with confidence. It gives families a chance to move into safe, secure homes while staying connected to the place they know and love.
“Our Government works closely with regional local councils in partnership to deliver outcomes people really need and in partnership with Cabonne Council this important project will help the people of Eugowra recover, grow and prepare for the future.”
Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said:
“This project represents real progress for Eugowra. It’s about turning recovery into renewal and giving families certainty about their future.
“For residents who’ve been through the trauma of losing their homes, having access to new, flood-resilient land means safety, stability and hope.
“By prioritising people who’ve received a buyback under the Resilient Homes Program, we’re helping them stay part of their community while moving to safer ground. This is how we build resilience; by giving people the chance to recover locally and stronger than before.”
Independent Member for Orange, Phil Donato said:
“While repairing Eugowra’s flood damage is critical, it is also important to support this disaster-impacted community to increase resilience and pivot, not just sustain residents, but to also grow these vibrant communities.”
“This funding will allow Cabonne Shire Council to establish new residential land in Eugowra outside of the mapped flood envelope, to support and sustain existing population of residents relocating from properties identified for buy-back, while providing housing opportunities for future growth of the town.”