Landslip incident

In emergencies, local councils support emergency services and help manage impacts to public infrastructure, taking actions that fall within their usual responsibilities to the community. During the emergency response phase, the LEOCON leads, and councils provide support. During recovery, councils may take on a lead coordination role, especially where public infrastructure is impacted.

We understand the significant hardship this situation has caused, however, the recovery, reinstatement or repair of private property is the responsibility of landowners and their insurers. City of Newcastle is not authorised to use public funds for works or repairs on private land, unless directed under specific laws or supported by state or federal disaster funding programs.

City of Newcastle’s role is to manage public safety. Fencing and restricted access have been implemented to prevent harm and protect the community. Any further property protection should be discussed with insurers. Some insurers have already taken appropriate measures to protect their vacant properties on behalf of the respective landowner.

We understand this situation is deeply distressing and that prolonged uncertainty makes it even more challenging for residents. However, we believe it is important to be open and clear about what lies ahead.

A geotechnical investigation commenced in August and is expected to take approximately five months, followed by an additional peer review process by the NSW State Government's Public Works Authority following completion of the investigation.

Following this, additional time will be required for consideration of recommendations and to determine appropriate solutions. Any recommendations required before safe reoccupation will also involve further time for design and implementation.

The long-term future of private properties in the affected area will be informed by several factors, including:

• The findings of the detailed geotechnical investigation and any additional reporting required.
• Any changes to the current Danger Area designation.
• Expert advice individual landowners may seek (such as structural, geotechnical or planning advice) to understand the specific impacts on their property and inform any future decisions or works.  
• Relevant planning pathways under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

On 25 July City of Newcastle (CN) received a letter from The Hon Janelle Saffin MP, NSW Minister for Recovery, acknowledging our requests for support from the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA). The Minister formally advised that while the RA is the lead agency for natural disaster recovery in NSW, it will not be the lead agency for the recovery phase of the New Lambton landslip.

On 28 July, following a late afternoon meeting with the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON), CN received confirmation that initial impact assessments have been completed and the situation has now stabilised enough for the emergency response phase to conclude. This is a significant milestone and means the focus can now shift to recovery.  

This formal handover transfers coordination of recovery operations to CN, as Chair of the Local Recovery Committee (LRC), in line with Section 6.2 of the NSW Recovery Plan. The LEOCON will continue to attend the LRC and provide support as needed.

We know this change does not resolve the uncertainty that residents are facing, but it marks an important step forward. CN is committed to working with the affected residents throughout recovery in a coordinated and transparent way. We have appointed a dedicated Recovery Coordinator and form the Local Recovery Committee. 

The area remains under an evacuation order issued by the LEOCON and is still classified as a Danger Area under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989. This will remain in place until the LEOCON is satisfied that the site is safe for the community.

In the meantime, City of Newcastle will continue to maintain fencing, signage, and increased ground movement monitoring, especially around forecasted wet weather. We will continue to provide updates to affected residents as recovery progresses, work closely with your insurers to coordinate periodic safe access where possible, and provide general updates to the dedicated landslip page on our website with the latest information.

It can be hard to know what to do or where to turn after a disaster or emergency has occurred.

The NSW Recovery Plan is a supporting plan that sets out the strategic arrangements for disaster recovery in NSW and provides the framework for local and event specific plans.

The Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience (AIDR) has established six national principles for disaster recovery, which are incorporated into NSW recovery planning:

• Understand the context: Successful recovery is based on understanding community context, with each community having its own history, values and dynamics.
• Recognise complexity: Successful recovery is responsive to the complex and dynamic nature of both emergencies and the community.
• Use community-led approaches: Successful recovery is community-centred, responsive and flexible, engaging with community and supporting them to move forward.
• Coordinate all activities: Successful recovery requires a planned, coordinated and adaptive approach between community and partner agencies, based on continuing assessment of impacts and needs.
• Communicate effectively: Successful recovery is built on effective communication between the affected community and other partners.
• Recognise and build capacity: Successful recovery recognises, supports and builds on individual, community and organisational capacity and resilience.

The role of a Recovery Coordinator under the NSW Recovery Plan involves coordinating recovery efforts across various agencies and communities. The Coordinator's role is crucial in ensuring that the recovery process is swift and effective, helping communities to return to their normal functioning as quickly as possible. 

For more information visit the NSW Reconstruction Authority website.

Since the incident on 23 May, residents have been provided updates via phone calls, email, community meetings as well as this dedicated incident web page. We appreciate that affected residents understandably have many questions and concerns, however we acknowledge that it is too early to be able to determine how long the process will take, and it would be unwise to speculate on future outcomes until the necessary investigations have taken place.

We will continue to provide residents with updated information as soon as we are able to do so.

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Geotechnical report

The geotechnical report remains on track to be shared with the impacted residents early 2026.

Financial assistance regarding rates payments for the residents affected by the landslip

As advised previously, shortly after the landslip we proactively implemented measures for the impacted ratepayers.  Under the Local Government Act 1993, financial assistance beyond the initial measures already established requires a resolution of Council and must be placed on Public Notice before it can be provided.

At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 22 July, a motion was carried for the Lord Mayor to write to relevant Ministers requesting financial assistance be provided in the form of an 'Act of Grace Payment' under the Government Sector Finance Act 2018 to the property owners impacted by the landslip. Following on from the Lord Mayor writing to the Minister for Local Government on the 24 September and with no response received, the public notice period commenced on Saturday 1 November 2025 and closed on Friday 28 November 2025.

Our CEO has considered the submissions and approved implementing the financial assistance in line with the Council resolution. After consideration of the submissions, the assistance available will be increased to include the 16^th property impacted by the landslip. Impacted families will receive the assistance upon evidence of payment of the first rates instalment.  

The site remains a declared danger area under an active evacuation notice. All affected properties remain within the designated danger zone, and access continues to be restricted for safety reasons as ground conditions remain active and potentially unstable.

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Geotechnical report

The geotechnical report remains on track to be shared with the impacted residents early 2026.

Advocacy for Category D disaster assistance for displaced residents

At next Tuesday’s Council Meeting (9 December), Councillors will receive a report outlining the significant and ongoing housing-related financial hardship facing residents impacted by the New Lambton Landslip, and the potential to ameliorate this through Australian Government Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.  

Interested parties can attend the meeting in-person or watch online. Details about attending or watching Council meetings are at this link: Council Meetings - City of Newcastle

Motion moved at Local Government NSW Conference

At the recent LGNSW conference (held 23 – 25 November) a motion was carried unanimously noting that LGNSW calls on the NSW Government to continue to improve the timeliness of disaster recovery assistance funding to local councils by utilising funding agreements to provide councils with faster access to the funds they require to cover the cost of natural disaster recovery efforts. It also calls to ensure that landslips and geotechnical stabilisation works are explicitly included within disaster recovery funding program eligibility.

This is important advocacy and we appreciate the support of Local Government NSW.

Financial assistance regarding rates payments for the residents affected by the landslip

Following the landslip event on 23 May, City of Newcastle proactively implemented measures for the impacted ratepayers.  Under the Local Government Act, financial assistance beyond the initial measures already established require a resolution of Council and must be placed on Public Notice before it can be applied.

At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 22 July, a motion was carried for the Lord Mayor to write to relevant Ministers requesting financial assistance be provided in the form of an 'Act of Grace Payment' under the Government Sector Finance Act 2018 to the property owners impacted by the landslip.

The Council resolution also stated that City of Newcastle would publicly notify its intention to grant financial assistance if the request to the Minister for Local Government is declined, or no response is received within 30 days from writing.

Following on from the Lord Mayor writing to the Minister for Local Government on the 24 September and with no response received, the public notice period commenced on Saturday 1 November 2025 and closed on Friday 28 November 2025. Any submissions received during the notice period will now be tabled for consideration and resolution by the CEO in line with the Council Resolution.

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Review of NSW Reconstruction Authority 

Submissions made to the Committee can be viewed on the parliament website by clicking on the Submissions tab. The final report is due May 2026, and a Government response to the report will likely be in late 2026.

Geotechnical report

The geotechnical report remains on track, and once it has been completed will then be subject to peer review by Public Works and Transport for NSW. The final report is expected to be shared with the impacted residents in early 2026.

Public notice, financial assistance regarding rates payments for the residents affected by the landslip

Following the landslip event on 23 May, City of Newcastle proactively implemented measures for the impacted ratepayers.  Under the Local Government Act, financial assistance beyond the initial measures already established require a resolution of Council and must be placed on Public Notice before it can be applied.

At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 22 July, a motion was carried for the Lord Mayor to write to relevant Ministers requesting financial assistance be provided in the form of an 'Act of Grace Payment' under the Government Sector Finance Act 2018 to the property owners impacted by the landslip.

The Council resolution also stated that City of Newcastle would publicly notify its intention to grant financial assistance if the request to the Minister for Local Government is declined, or no response is received within 30 days from writing.

Following on from the Lord Mayor writing to the Minister for Local Government on the 24 September and with no response received, the public notice period commenced on Saturday 1 November 2025 and will close on Friday 28 November 2025. If submissions are received during the notice period, they will be considered and resolved by the CEO in-line with the Council Resolution.

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Public notice, financial assistance regarding rates payments for the residents affected by the landslip

Following the landslip event on 23 May, City of Newcastle proactively implemented measures for the impacted ratepayers.  Under the Local Government Act, financial assistance beyond the initial measures already established require a resolution of Council and must be placed on Public Notice before it can be applied.

At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 22 July, a motion was carried for the Lord Mayor to write to relevant Ministers requesting financial assistance be provided in the form of an 'Act of Grace Payment' under the Government Sector Finance Act 2018 to the property owners impacted by the landslip.

The Council resolution also stated that City of Newcastle would publicly notify its intention to grant financial assistance if the request to the Minister for Local Government is declined, or no response is received within 30 days from writing.

Following on from the Lord Mayor writing to the Minister for Local Government on the 24 September and with no response received, the public notice period commenced on Saturday 1 November 2025 and will close on Friday 28 November 2025. If submissions are received during the notice period, they will be considered and resolved by the CEO in-line with the Council Resolution.

The Public Notice can be viewed here.

What is covered?

City of Newcastle has proposed that a donation pool be made available, with individual donations limited to an amount equal to that of the 2025/26 rates and charges of an individual impacted property.

Further details of the proposal are available in the report endorsed by Council on 22 July 2025 here.

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority regarding the NSW East Coast severe weather from May 2025

We welcome the NSW Parliament review of the operations of the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) following the NSW East Coast Severe Weather from May 2025, and we have made a submission in relation to our experience and interaction with the RA following the New Lambton landslip. 

The Committee's webpage will be updated with information as the inquiry progresses. This will include the publication of submissions, details of any public hearings, and the release of the Committee's report.

We encouraged the affected residents to also make submissions detailing their experiences, and the impacts felt. It is our understanding that the final report is due May 2026 and a Government response to the Committee report would likely be in late 2026. We look forward to the reviews’ findings.

Local Recovery Committee

A Local Recovery Committee meeting was held on 1 October with resident representation. This was an opportunity for residents to share their experience and ongoing challenge, and also to ask questions about the ongoing recovery. We will continue to offer this opportunity to the affected residents on a rotational basis.

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by both residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Communication with residents

Since the incident on 23 May 2025, residents have received regular updates through phone calls, text messages and emails, as well as via a dedicated incident web page on the City of Newcastle website. In the early emergency response phase, community meetings were convened by Police in the role of the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON).

Since transitioning to the recovery phase, City of Newcastle has appointed an experienced Recovery Coordinator and established the Local Recovery Committee (LRC). A community meeting was held on Wednesday 10 September, where residents received detailed updates on emergency works, the geotechnical investigations, and input and updates from relevant agencies. Residents also had the opportunity to ask questions of all agencies and raise any concerns. A resident representative will join future LRC meetings to convey their experience throughout the landslip recovery.  

Geotechnical investigations are ongoing, with fieldwork for the geotechnical study now complete. Our consultants will now move into an analysis phase, assessing the data gathered during the fieldwork phase. 

Findings will be subject to peer review by the NSW Government's Public Works Authority and Transport for NSW. These studies will play an important part in guiding decisions about the site's future. However, this work will take time, and it’s too early to determine recovery timeframes or outcomes at this stage. 

Safety

Site safety remains a concern for City of Newcastle, with unauthorised people breaching the security measures in place and accessing the site. 

Given the instability of the land and the likelihood of further movement, we cannot stress enough the importance for all residents and members of the community to remain outside the danger area unless their visit is authorised.

Authorised access to the site, such as for the removal of any remaining items or make-safe works to buildings, has been and will continue to be managed based on a task-specific basis including risk assessment on the proposed activity, duration of stay, and the status of the site and/or structures at that point in time. Given the unpredictability of the site, an assessment and clearance given on one day may not be applicable the next.

We continue to actively monitor the site closely and assess the ground conditions.

We appreciate that the uncertainty for residents about whether they can repair or rebuild and return home is distressing. We will continue to provide information to residents as quickly as possible to help them make decisions about their future. 

City of Newcastle acknowledges the ongoing impact to residents in the area affected by the New Lambton landslip, which occurred in May 2025. We recognise the hardship faced by both residents who have had to leave their homes and those who are living nearby.

We remain committed to working with the impacted residents and neighbours as recovery efforts continue. We understand how distressing the uncertainty is, and will continue to provide clear and timely updates, and maintain individual contact with impacted residents and near neighbours.

Site status

Following last night’s intense rainfall, further structural damage to several properties on Baker Street has been observed this morning. We acknowledge that this is upsetting news for impacted residents, and the residents of these specific properties have been briefed this morning on the current status and offered support services to help them process this news.

Communication with residents

Since the incident on 23 May 2025, residents have received regular updates through phone calls, text messages and emails, as well as via a dedicated incident web page on the City of Newcastle website. In the early emergency response phase, community meetings were convened by Police in the role of the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON).

Since transitioning to the recovery phase, City of Newcastle has appointed an experienced Recovery Coordinator and established the Local Recovery Committee. A community meeting was held last night (Wednesday 10 September), where residents received detailed updates on emergency works, the geotechnical investigations, and input and updates from relevant agencies. Residents also had the opportunity to ask questions of all agencies and raise any concerns.  

Geotechnical investigations are ongoing, with findings subject to peer review by the NSW Government's Public Works Authority and Transport for NSW. These studies will play an important part in guiding decisions about the site's future. However, this work will take time, and it’s too early to determine recovery timeframes or outcomes at this stage. 

Representatives from Hunter Water and the NSW Red Cross also attended the meeting, providing information and offering support services to residents. Impacted residents were briefed on the role of the Local Recovery Committee and were invited to nominate themselves as community representatives on the Committee. 

The Committee’s approach for meetings and consultation follows the NSW Recovery Plan, under the NSW State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989, and aligns with the NSW State Emergency Management Plan.

Clarity on responsibilities

City of Newcastle is responsible for public infrastructure such as roads, footpaths and stormwater systems.

Responsibility for privately owned land and property rests with individual landowners and their insurers. City of Newcastle does not fund works or repairs on private land, unless required to do so under specific laws or supported by state or federal disaster recovery programs.

Conversations with the NSW Government regarding this will commence once the geotechnical investigations are complete and the size and complexity of the situation is better understood. 

Safety

Site safety remains a concern for City of Newcastle, with unauthorised people breaching the security measures in place and accessing the site. 

Given the instability of the land and the likelihood of further movement, we cannot stress enough the importance for all residents and members of the community to remain outside the danger area unless their visit is authorised.

Authorised access to the site, such as for the removal of any remaining items or make-safe works to buildings, has been and will continue to be managed based on a task-specific basis including risk assessment on the proposed activity, duration of stay, and the status of the site and/or structures at that point in time. Given the unpredictability of the site, an assessment and clearance given on one day may not be applicable the next.

We continue to actively monitor the site closely and assess the ground conditions.

We appreciate that the uncertainty for residents about whether they can repair or rebuild and return home is distressing. We will continue to work on getting information to residents as quickly as possible to help them make decisions about their future. 

Due to recent changes to site conditions, the residents of one property adjoining the danger area on Victoria Street has chosen to self-evacuate. This decision was made in consultation with their insurer, and they have now moved into temporary accommodation.

Following this, the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON) Superintendent Kylie Endemi has today issued an official Evacuation Order for this additional property and has expanded the designated Danger Area to include this additional property on Victoria Street, prioritising the safety of both residents and the public. Fencing will be in place along the adjusted danger area boundary.

This property had already been part of regular assessments conducted by engineering consultants engaged by City of Newcastle, including ongoing monitoring of ground movement and the structural integrity of the home. The owners were kept informed and were aware that an evacuation order was an active consideration.

Despite what has been reported in the media, this additional property is the only one that has been subjected to an evacuation order since the original 15 properties were evacuated following the landslip incident. No other evacuation orders have been issued. We are not aware of any other resident in that area who has self-evacuated.

Our teams will continue to monitor the area and assess surrounding properties in liaison with those residents. Any change will be communicated to them directly out of respect for their privacy.

As communicated to impacted residents over the weekend, there have been noticeable movements on the landslip site, and further structural damage to some properties including, sadly, the collapse of one property in Baker Street.

We understand how distressing this news can be and the difficulties of this being an uncertain situation with no clear timeline or outcome. We remain committed to keeping residents informed of site status as a group, in addition to individual contact with residents, out of respect for privacy, about any matters relating to specific property.

Site status

At this point in time, no further evacuations have been ordered and the danger area has not been extended. Given the nature of the landslip and conditions of the site, further movement is expected and the site remains highly unpredictable.

Safety remains our primary concern. We acknowledge that residents are still hoping to get into their property to gather additional items and to see if there has been further damage, and that it is distressing not being able to go into their own home. Where it was deemed safe to do so, we have coordinated site access for residents and their insurers on multiple occasions since they were evacuated. We will continue to facilitate access requested by residents or their contractors when and where it is safe to do so. 

The site remains a danger area because it is unpredictable. It is imperative that people do not access the danger area without following the access protocols that are in place, which includes an assessment of risk based on the proposed activity, duration of stay, and the status of the site and/or structures at that point in time. Given the unpredictability of the site, an assessment and clearance given on one day may not be applicable the next.

Resident communications and meetings

In addition to regular updates by email and phone, residents have been updated on timing for the next face-to-face meeting, which will follow the first meeting of the Local Recovery Committee (LRC). The LRC expects to meet within the next 1 -2 weeks, and at this initial meeting a number of items including the terms of reference and resident representation on the Committee for subsequent meetings will be confirmed.

The first meeting of the Committee will include a small number of representatives from the agencies involved, and then the second and subsequent meetings will have broader attendance including appropriate representation of impacted or affected community members. This group will be critical in providing us with ongoing updates, addressing any emerging issues, and ensuring identified recovery activities are undertaken.

On Saturday night, City of Newcastle received reports from residents of further noticeable ground movement at the New Lambton landslip site.

We immediately deployed staff to inspect the area and can confirm that while some properties remain stable with no additional impact observed, a property on Baker Street collapsed, and significant further damage to some other properties is being monitored.

Our Geotechnical specialists and NSW Police have been on site to ensure safety. The Evacuation Order and Danger Area declaration remain firmly in place.

For your safety and that of others, please do not attempt to access the site. This event highlights how quickly conditions can change.

We have made contact with affected residents and provided an update on the situation. We acknowledge how distressing this continues to be for residents and thank them for their cooperation as safety, stability and recovery planning remain our highest priorities.

We are aware of further movement within the New Lambton Landslip area.

City of Newcastle’s geotechnical team and police are onsite working to ensure the safety of the area. The Evacuation Order and Danger Area directions remain in place, please do not attempt to go on site for your own safety.

A works notification letter was delivered to a number of properties in the Russell Road area, advising residents of an upcoming temporary closure to the parking lane and reduced speed limit in a section of Russell Road. This is temporary, and is required to facilitate geotechnical investigations in the adjacent area. The footpath and bus stop will remain open.

For more detail view the notification letter.

As stated in our last update, following the transition of recovery coordination to City of Newcastle, we began steps to appoint a dedicated Recovery Coordinator and form the Local Recovery Committee. The Recovery Coordinator is now on board and will be introduced to affected residents soon. 

A detailed geotechnical investigation is commencing soon, with site establishment works underway. It is expected to take approximately five months, followed by an additional peer review process by the NSW State Government's Public Works Authority following completion of the investigation. 

The site remains a declared danger area under an active evacuation notice. All affected properties remain within the designated danger area, and access continues to be restricted for safety reasons as ground conditions remain active and potentially unstable. Where safe to do so, we continue to coordinate brief periods of access for residents, their insurers or agents to enable removal of belongings, inspections and make-safe works. 

Recent heavy rain has led to further land and property movement within the landslip area, including further structural damage to one of the properties which is already subject to a demolition order. This order was issued on 23 July to protect the surrounding environment, neighbouring properties and infrastructure given the extent of impact to this particular property.

Yesterday marked an important change in how the landslip is being managed.

Summary update:

• The LEOCON has confirmed that initial impact assessments have been completed and the situation has now stabilised enough for the emergency response phase to conclude.
• City of Newcastle is now formally establishing a Local Recovery Committee for the New Lambton landslip and will continue working with the affected community and a range of government agencies, consistent with the national principles for disaster recovery and the NSW Recovery Plan.
• The area remains a declared Danger Area, and the Evacuation Order remains in place.  These actions were taken by the LEOCON to protect life and property.  
• A detailed geotechnical investigation is planned to commence in the next two weeks, and is planned to take at least five months, followed by an independent peer review.
• Residents should plan for alternate accommodation into 2026 due to the complexity of the situation and anticipate that further time may be required for any additional studies or recovery works.
• City of Newcastle’s role is to prioritise community safety and the restoration and protection of public infrastructure. Decisions and actions relating to private property reinstatement will need to be managed by individual landowners, supported by their insurers and relevant advisors.

Detailed update:

Current status

On 25 July City of Newcastle (CN) received a letter from The Hon Janelle Saffin MP, NSW Minister for Recovery, acknowledging our requests for support from the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA). The Minister formally advised that while the RA is the lead agency for natural disaster recovery in NSW, it will not be the lead agency for the recovery phase of the New Lambton landslip.

On 28 July, following a late afternoon meeting with the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON), CN received confirmation that initial impact assessments have been completed and the situation has now stabilised enough for the emergency response phase to conclude. This is a significant milestone and means the focus can now shift to recovery.  

This formal handover transfers coordination of recovery operations to CN, as Chair of the Local Recovery Committee (LRC), in line with Section 6.2 of the NSW Recovery Plan. The LEOCON will continue to attend the LRC and provide support as needed.

We know this change does not resolve the uncertainty that residents are facing, but it marks an important step forward. CN is committed to working with the affected residents throughout recovery in a coordinated and transparent way. We will now commence steps to appoint a dedicated Recovery Coordinator and form the Local Recovery Committee. 

The area remains under an evacuation order issued by the LEOCON and is still classified as a Danger Area under the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989. This will remain in place until the LEOCON is satisfied that the site is safe for the community.

In the meantime, City of Newcastle will continue to maintain fencing, signage, and increased ground movement monitoring, especially around forecasted wet weather. We will continue to provide updates to affected residents as recovery progresses, work closely with your insurers to coordinate periodic safe access where possible, and provide general updates to the dedicated landslip page on our website with the latest information.

Timeframes

We understand this situation is deeply distressing and that prolonged uncertainty makes it even more challenging for residents. However, we believe it is important to be open and clear about what lies ahead.

Once commenced, the geotechnical investigation is expected to take approximately five months, followed by an additional peer review process by the NSW State Government's Public Works Authority following completion of the investigation. We expect the detailed geotechnical investigations to commence on site within the next two weeks.   

Following this, additional time will be required for consideration of recommendations and to determine appropriate solutions. Any recommendations required before safe reoccupation will also involve further time for design and implementation.

While we cannot provide a definitive timeframe for completion, we want to be transparent about the likely duration. Looking at other landslip recovery efforts across Australia gives some indication of how long it can take to work through challenges of this scale. We share this information openly to support residents in making informed short to medium-term plans.

Responsibilities

City of Newcastle is responsible for public infrastructure such as roads, footpaths and stormwater systems. We continue to monitor the site closely and are coordinating a detailed geotechnical investigation to assess the ground conditions, including risk to these public assets.

For clarity, responsibility for privately owned land and dwellings ultimately rests with individual landowners and their insurers. Councils do not have a role in directing or funding repairs to private property unless formally required to do so by legislation or supported through state or federal disaster recovery programs.

The long-term future of private properties in the affected area will be informed by several factors, including:

• The findings of the detailed geotechnical investigation and any additional reporting required.
• Any changes to the current Danger Area designation.
• Expert advice individual landowners may seek (such as structural, geotechnical or planning advice) to understand the specific impacts on their property and inform any future decisions or works.  
• Relevant planning pathways under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Recent actions

On 23 July, City of Newcastle issued a demolition order for one of the affected properties following specialist advice that the building posed a structural collapse risk due to ongoing ground movement. This decision was not taken lightly and followed discussions with the owner. The order was necessary to protect the surrounding environment, neighbouring properties, and infrastructure.

The stability of other dwellings in the area continues to be monitored by CN and consultants as part of the overall landslip site monitoring. Property owners are responsible for any make safe works to their individual homes.

Site status

Rainfall in early July has resulted in additional ground movement, demonstrating that the site remains unsafe. Regular monitoring will continue, with increased surveillance implemented around forecast wet weather. 

Geotechnical investigations

Planning continues for commencement of detailed geotechnical investigations, with legal and procurement processes underway to coordinate works on public land and access for works on private land. Residents are being provided updates on this process.

Financial assistance regarding rates payments

Following the landslip event on 23 May, City of Newcastle proactively implemented measures for the impacted ratepayers.  Under the Act, financial assistance beyond the initial measures established, requires a resolution of Council and must be placed on Public Notice before it can be applied. At last night's Ordinary Council Meeting, a motion was carried unanimously to proceed with the next step, which is publishing a public notice for 28 days noting Council's intention to grant financial assistance to ratepayers impacted by the landslip incident.

A motion was also carried for the Lord Mayor to write to relevant Ministers requesting financial assistance be provided in the form of an 'Act of Grace Payment' under the Government Sector Finance Act 2018 to the property owners impacted by the landslip.

Demolition order

City of Newcastle has issued a demolition order for one of the affected properties, following advice that the dwelling is at risk of structural collapse due to continued ground movement. This decision is not made lightly, but is necessary to prevent potential harm and reduce risk to surrounding environment, properties and infrastructure.

We understand the distress this may cause residents and will continue to work closely with the affected property owner to support them through this process.

Recovery

We continue to report weekly to the NSW Regional Recovery Committee and strongly advocate for formal involvement and support from the State Government's Reconstruction Authority.

The site remains a declared danger area and is subject to an active evacuation notice. Entry into the area continues to be restricted for safety reasons and must be coordinated through the LEOCON and LEMO. All affected properties remain within the designated danger zone. 

While the initial emergency response phase has concluded and the Emergency Operations Centre has been stood down, the site remains under the direction of the LEOCON as ground conditions remain active and potentially unstable. 

Emergency works were completed to seal visible ground surface cracks, improve surface water management, and reduce the risk of further ground movement or deterioration. These works also enable access for further geotechnical investigations. This detailed investigation is required to determine the cause of the landslip, assess ongoing risk, and guide recovery planning. 

Recent rainfall events have resulted in additional ground movement, demonstrating that the site remains unsafe. Regular monitoring will continue, with increased surveillance implemented around forecast wet weather. 

The site remains a danger area subject to an evacuation notice until the LEOCON permits re-entry. To date, the majority of residents have been able to access their homes at least twice to retrieve essential belongings. 

Emergency site works were undertaken late last week and early this week under the direction of the LEOCON. These works were planned as a preliminary measure to reduce the impacts of further rainfall on the site and the open scarp, as well as to provide entry for further geotechnical investigations. The work was undertaken before this week's heavy rainfall, and we continue to inspect the area and review the results of ground monitoring.

Affected residents should continue to engage directly with their insurer regarding claims to private property. 

City of Newcastle remains committed to working with the NSW Government and recovery agencies to ensure a coordinated, safe, and compassionate path forward for the community.

The site remains a danger area subject to an evacuation notice until the LEOCON permits re-entry. To date, the majority of residents have been able to access their homes at least twice to retrieve essential belongings. 

Preliminary site works have commenced under the direction of the LEOCON to reduce the impacts of further rainfall on the site and the open scarp, as well as to provide entry for further geotechnical investigations. 

Affected residents should continue to engage directly with their insurer regarding claims to private property. Due to the disaster declaration, some residents may also be eligible for special assistance measures from the State Government. We are aware that several residents have already had their claims paid to their bank accounts. 

City of Newcastle remains committed to working with the NSW Government and recovery agencies to ensure a coordinated, safe, and compassionate path forward for the community.

Now that the emergency response is complete, the Emergency Operation Centre has closed. The LEOCON, LEMO and City of Newcastle continue to liaise and manage the danger area and coordinate responses to affected residents.  We continue to await formal advice from the NSW Reconstruction Authority about recovery. 

We are continuing to monitor the danger area, and results indicate that ground movement remains stable. Survey monitoring has been reduced to weekly, but additional monitoring will take place prior to and after any rainfall event. If there is a substantial rainfall or storm event, we would increase survey frequency again.

Site security arrangements remain in place. Emergency works commenced this week. Further emergency works to clear the work zone, assess and remove trees that are compromised or pose a risk in the zone, and seal the scarp will continue. 

The Emergency Operation Centre remains active, and the LEOCON and partner agencies involved in the emergency response are continuing to meet. We are expecting advice from the NSW Reconstruction Authority about recovery this week.

We are continuing to monitor the danger area, and results indicate that ground movement remains stable. Given these results we will soon shift to weekly survey monitoring. If there is a substantial rainfall or storm event, we would increase survey frequency again.

Site security arrangements remain in place. We encourage residents to continue to liaise directly with their insurers. We are providing prompt site access to insurers and their agents so that they can conduct the necessary inspections and ultimately, resolution to residents on their individual claims.

Emergency works have commenced today with the removal of a number of trees that were either compromised by the ground movement or were obstructing site access for machinery.

This afternoon, the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) met with the NSW Regional Recovery Coordinator for the Hunter and Mid-North Coast. The discussion centred on advocating for continued support for displaced residents, clarifying agency responsibilities, and seeking guidance on the transition from the current Response phase, to Recovery with the finalisation of the EOC. 

The Regional Recovery Coordinator has committed to seeking formal advice from the NSW Reconstruction Authority on how recovery efforts may be coordinated moving forward and whether the Authority will take a lead role in that process. The formal response is expected as early as next week.

Emergency remediation works are being planned under the direction of the LEOCON. These works are planned to commence next week (weather permitting) and are designed to increase site stability and help prevent further ground movement in the event of unfavourable weather. This will include management of unstable trees, and earthworks to close the earth to prevent further water ingress.  Once this stage is complete, it will allow for more detailed engineering assessments to proceed.

We are actively looking for safe opportunities to support residents in recovering as many items as possible, therefore planning is underway to facilitate additional entry into affected properties to allow residents to retrieve further personal belongings. Timing will be confirmed next week, based on ongoing assessments and expert geotechnical and structural advice. 

Security and police patrols will continue at the site until further notice, and site assessments are ongoing.

We thank residents for their continued patience and will share further information as it becomes available.

Through the LEOCON, regular conversations are occurring with impacted residents to provide them updates on the situation and connect them with support services throughout this difficult time.

In positive news, no further ground movement has been recorded over the long weekend following last week's rain. 

In addition to email and phone updates, resident meetings have been held on Monday 26 May and Tuesday 3 June.

We have advised affected residents of the expected timeframe and process for the detailed engineering investigations that are required to determine a plan for the impacted properties. We also confirmed that we will provide relevant information to insurers to support residents in their claims, including claims related to medium- to long-term accommodation for the period while the investigations are carried out and recommendations are developed for the long-term safety and management of the site.

Through the LEOCON, regular conversations are occurring with impacted residents to provide them updates on the situation and connect them with support services throughout this difficult time.

Ground monitoring continues, with no ground movement of significance recorded since the initial incident.

An initial community meeting was held on Monday 26 May with impacted and surrounding residents, and a second meeting was held with impacted residents on Tuesday 3 June.

At the most recent meeting with the affected residents we discussed the expected timeframe and process for the detailed engineering investigations. We also confirmed that we will provide relevant information to insurers to support residents in their claims, including claims related to medium- to long-term accommodation for the period while the investigations are carried out and recommendations are developed for the long-term safety and management of the site.

We will add further information when we can as we work through the emergency response, and as we transition to the recovery phase.

Through the LEOCON, regular conversations are occurring with impacted residents to provide them updates on the situation and connect them with support services throughout this difficult time.

An initial community meeting was held on Monday 26 May with impacted and surrounding residents, and a second meeting was held with impacted residents earlier this evening on Tuesday 3 June.

We continue to update answers to frequently asked questions in the section below. We will add further information when we can as we work through the emergency response, and as we transition to the recovery phase.

A community meeting was held on Monday 26 May with impacted and surrounding residents. Through the LEOCON, regular conversations are occurring with impacted residents to provide them updates on the situation and connect them with support services throughout this difficult time.

We continue to update answers to frequently asked questions in the section below. We will add further information when we can as we work through the emergency response.

Further details of support services available were added to the page at this time.

A community meeting was held on Monday 26 May with impacted and surrounding residents. Through the LEOCON, regular conversations are occurring with impacted residents to provide them updates on the situation and connect them with support services throughout this difficult time.

We continue to update answers to frequently asked questions in the section below. We will add further information when we can as we work through the emergency response.

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (below on the page) were updated at this time.

A community meeting was held on Monday 26 May with impacted and surrounding residents. Through the LEOCON, regular conversations are occurring with impacted residents to provide them updates on the situation and connect them with support services throughout this difficult time.

We have begun answering frequently asked questions in the section below. We will add further information when we can as we work through the emergency response.

Supporting information added:

NSW Fair Trading, Help after the floods

This site outlines things you should be aware of after a natural disaster occurs, as well as information about financial support.

Legal Aid NSW, Disaster Response Legal Service 

The Disaster Response Legal Service is a free legal service supporting people who have been impacted by disasters including storms, floods and bushfires.

The service can help with legal issues such as insurance (including temporary accommodation, food spoilage, cash settlements and disputes), access to government disaster grants, tenancy and housing issues including urgent repairs and rent abatements, and financial hardship. Call 1800 801 529 to book a free appointment with a solicitor for phone advice.