As the emergency threat from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred diminishes, over 7,500 homes and businesses remain without power due to ongoing heavy rain, while more than 50 emergency crews assess damage in the Tweed region.

He further asserted that taxpayer money should not be spent to keep people in harm's way during natural disasters, highlighting the need for safety.

These homes are part of the Resilient Homes scheme, bought back by the state government following the devastating 2022 Lismore floods.

NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson claimed that the squatters were not engaging with housing services, undermining government efforts to address homelessness.

Minns expressed frustration over the presence of squatters in flood-prone areas, emphasizing that it is unacceptable for emergency services to check on these households.

In defense of the squatters, Greens member Sue Higginson stated that they had evacuated before Cyclone Alfred and were willing to leave once a relocation plan was in place.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns announced plans to forcibly evict squatters from flood-damaged homes and demolish the properties as part of the clean-up efforts following recent floods.

The government plans to replace the demolished homes with green space, aiming to improve the area after the flood damages.

Higginson criticized the demolition decision, labeling it a 'war' on the northern NSW community and asserting that the squatters pose no risk.

Eviction notices have been served to the squatters, but they have not complied and are seeking priority access to social housing during discussions with government officials.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin clarified that local residents are being supported while raising concerns about outsiders claiming to help the community.

The squatters, including overseas visitors and backpackers, have been living in eight condemned homes near Lismore's city center, which were part of a state buyback scheme initiated after the 2022 floods.