About Us
Get Well & Stay Well
As one of Sydney’s leading treatment centres for rehabilitation for alcohol and drug addiction, we look at “wellness’ in the long term. We help individuals find a way out of addiction through education, inspiration, peer support, on-going care and connection with a recovery community.
About Us
Get Well & Stay Well
As one of Sydney’s leading treatment centres for rehabilitation for alcohol and drug addiction, we look at “wellness’ in the long term. We help individuals find a way out of addiction through education, inspiration, peer support, on-going care and connection with a recovery community.
Our Approach
You may have been to a drug and alcohol rehab, only to drink and take drugs sometime after you return home. Many people can stop using drugs and alcohol in the short term; the challenge for most people is keeping on track with this.
Our program is modelled on the highly effective The Retreat USA, which boasts success rates that far exceed that of any other public or private alcohol and drug rehabilitation program anywhere in the world.
Why The Sydney Retreat
We provide affordable, accessible and effective residential recovery programs to help drug and alcohol dependent individuals.
Our program has a non-clinical focus and mutual-help approach to the problem of alcohol and drug dependency. We believe that through the use of the tools available through our educational program, recovery and long-term sobriety are possible.
Those who followed the program
0
%
remained sober after 12 months
What makes us unique?
Proven recovery outcomes
The retreat provides a non-clinical, mutual-help approach to the problem of alcohol and drug dependency. This supportive, educational setting is grounded in the principles of 12 Step Recovery. A number of studies have shown that intensive programs that embrace 12 Step Recovery, and ongoing outpatient support, are more likely to lead to long term recovery outcomes in individuals with drug and alcohol dependency. By providing a safe and supportive environment to study and practice these principles, The Sydney Retreat opens the door to a life free of addiction with long term recovery.
Personal experience
Most of our staff, and our volunteers have the lived experience of recovery from addiction. This life-long learning through personal recovery provides an authenticity and expertise to interactions with residents struggling with these issues. There is a large team of over 120 dedicated volunteers with long term recovery who provide support to residents throughout the 28-day immersive program
Ongoing chain of care
The Sydney Retreat through immersion in the principles of 12 step recovery and lasting connection to a recovery community is the foundation for an ongoing return to health. The Sydney Retreat provides supports to all guests with the opportunity to engage with the “living sober program”. Residential Sober Living houses are available to those are looking for further long-term support. The Breakfast Club also provides an opportunity to connect after leaving the facility.
Family support
The Sydney Retreat opens its doors to family and loved ones as part of a holistic approach to the treatment of addiction. Families are invited to attend weekly sessions which can enable a deeper understanding of addiction, and how it can affect not only the person struggling with alcohol or drug dependency, but also its effect on family members. The family session introduces family members to the Al-Anon 12 step program and enables a connection with a recovery community for those affected by someone else’s addictions.
Our Board
Our board of directors have experience in both business operations and the process of recovery. The Sydney Retreat is an entirely not-for-profit organization. Our Board members are not paid directors’ fees.
A team that’s deeply committed to addiction recovery
Alan Hargreaves
Cheryn Porter
John Malone
Dr Stephen Jurd
Real People. Real Stories
5.0 stars (based on 53 reviews)
The program is really well structured & the routine set me up with a positive blueprint for success in the outside world. The staff & volunteers are compassionate & caring & a constant source of support and understanding.
Thank you for you call today following up on my daughter’s wellbeing after her recent stay at your facility. I am very pleased to confirm that she is embracing her renewed wonder in her life and the possibilities she sees before her, thanks again.
Going into the retreat, I didn’t know what to expect. The facility itself is great and all the staff are extremely welcoming, compassionate and understanding. I’m grateful that The Sydney Retreat is focused heavily on 12-step recovery and isn’t just another detox.
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What makes us unique?
The Sydney Retreat offers a transformative recovery experience inspired by the world-renowned Retreat in Minnesota, USA. Unlike traditional hospital or clinical settings, we provide a warm, community-based environment where recovery is guided by peers who have walked the same path and achieved lasting freedom from addiction.
Our method is grounded in Twelve Step Facilitation, a proven and empowering approach that has helped millions achieve long-term sobriety through connection, understanding, and practical tools for daily living.
The results speak for themselves: 85% of our guests who follow our program remain sober after 12 months, far exceeding conventional rehabilitation outcomes. At The Sydney Retreat, recovery isn’t just a possibility, it’s real, lasting, and life-changing.
How are we different from other treatment programs?
The Sydney Retreat stands apart by providing a supportive, educational, and community-based approach to recovery. Our approach is centred on the proven Twelve Step Facilitation model, empowering guests to take meaningful steps toward long-term sobriety. Rather than a clinical or medical setting, we offer a welcoming environment where guests learn practical tools for recovery, build strong connections, and gain guidance from peers who have successfully transformed their own lives.
By the time you complete the program, you’ll have a dedicated recovery mentor and a clear path forward, equipped with the same principles and practices that have helped countless individuals achieve lasting freedom from addiction.
Who runs the program?
The Sydney Retreat is guided by a dedicated board of directors, supported by an experienced professional team, and enriched by more than 150 dedicated volunteers from the recovery community. Every member of our team has personally overcome addiction and is now living a full, meaningful life in recovery, making us uniquely positioned to help others do the same.
We are qualified, experienced, authentic, and compassionate, bringing genuine understanding and care to every guest’s journey toward lasting sobriety.
What is the admission criteria?
The Sydney Retreat welcomes adults aged 18 and over who are ready to take the first step toward lasting recovery from alcohol or drug dependency. Our program is designed for those who are motivated to make meaningful change and engage in a supportive, community-based environment.
Admission begins with a confidential pre-registration consultation over the phone, allowing our team to understand your needs and ensure the program is the right fit.
How long do people stay?
The length of stay is 28 days.
How much does it cost?
The Sydney Retreat is a registered charity determined to keep its fees as low as possible whilst covering its costs. The current guest fee is $11,950, which covers all expenses for our 28-day residential recovery program. Guests are not able to use their private health insurance for our program; however, there are partial scholarships available to those who qualify and guests may be eligible to access their superannuation to cover the cost.
How can I use my super to pay for rehab?
Did you know you could be eligible to use your super for mental health and dependency treatment under the Compassionate Release of Super Program?
For more information visit Release My Super or get in touch with our admissions team on (02) 9171 2920 who can help you navigate the process.
Is there any support after I finish my 28-day program?
Absolutely. One of the core pillars of our program is making sure you are connected to a recovery community to provide ongoing support once your time at The Sydney Retreat is over. Some people may choose to enter our Sober House Program where they gain additional support.
Can my family come to visit?
Yes, the family can visit for lunch and a group family support session afterwards, with time to connect with your loved ones. Children under 18 years are unable to visit, however video calls with dependent children can be arranged during your stay.




