Lismore flood victims protest outside Kirribilli House

A group of “fed up” flood survivors have travelled 700km from Lismore to dump the remains of their houses outside Kirribilli House.

Angry and “fed up” Lismore flood survivors have travelled to Sydney to dump the remains of their destroyed homes outside Kirribilli House.

The group of nine brought their possessions including damaged doors and chairs to the gates of Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s residence on Monday morning, calling for action on climate change.

After begging for Mr Morrison to “care” about their plight, a minute of silence was held for those who died in the floods.

The group outside Kirribilli House on Monday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Damian Shaw

“We are citizens of Lismore, representing everyone,” one woman said.

“Listen to the signs, this is a climate catastrophe”.

Police blocked off surrounding streets and barred the group from accessing Kirribilli House, forcing them to leave behind their truckful of damaged property, and carry possessions on foot to the gates of the property.

On a damaged door they wrote; “Morrison your climate mega flood destroyed our homes.”

Tessa Campesi, whose 88-year-old neighbour died in the disaster said it was “one thing to offer support but these floods were caused by the warming climate and burning of fuels. It’s actually insulting”.

“Scott Morrison came to our town and he wouldn’t talk to us so we’ve come here to talk to him.”

Kate Stroud spent six hours on her roof waiting for help.

“We are so sick of the bottomless promises, we need to fund the climate crisis,” she said.

“This could happen to you and somebody you love or even you, it’s a very scary thing,”

“This here, (damaged goods) is our reality,” said and Stroud.

Lismore resident Chris said those who travelled to Sydney for the protest stayed in a hotel – their first real home experience since the floods.

The Prime Minister left Kirribilli House hours before the protesters arrived.

“He wasn’t there to listen and have a conversation,” Chris said.

FORMER TOP COP TO LEAD FLOODS PROBE

Former Police Commissioner Mick Fuller and NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer Mary O’Kane are set to lead an independent inquiry into the NSW flood crisis after criticism of all levels of government intensified.

Acting Premier Paul Toole established the inquiry to improve the state’s prevention and recovery planning for future natural disasters.

“We have always said we will take whatever action we can to improve our management of natural disasters, and this inquiry is an important step in that process,” Mr Toole said.

The flood-ravaged towns are in for a months-long clean-up. Picture Lachie Millard

“The Inquiry will sit alongside our flood recovery efforts, and we’ll continue to put everything we can into ensuring we get impacted people and communities back on their feet as quickly as possible”

The investigation comes after allegations were levelled at both the state and Commonwealth government for what eyes on the ground described as a lumbering response to an unprecedented tragedy.

Mr Fuller and Ms O’Kane will investigate the causes of the record-breaking flooding, preparation and planning from the government and local agencies, as well as incident response and recovery.

Former Police Commissioner Mick Fuller has been brought on for the inquiry. Picture: Bianca De Marchi

NSW chief scientist Mary O'Kane will join Mr Fuller to lead the investigation. Picture: Holly Adams

Recommendations are expected on a range of issues including maintaining the safety of first responders, building appropriate infrastructure in flood-prone areas, and how to adapt to future flood risks.

The inquiry will report to Premier Dominic Perrottet on causation, land use planning and management by June 30 and all other matters by September 30.

Mr Perrottet will return from parental leave on April 4 following the birth of his seventh child.

“The reviewers will travel to and consult directly with affected communities, and details of public consultation and submission making opportunities will be published soon,” Mr Toole said.

“No two floods are the same and there is no formulaic response, but when it comes to natural disasters, we can never be too prepared.”