Short stay addiction program launches in Sydney, connecting patients to ongoing community support

A transformative new short stay treatment model for addiction is launching this month in Sydney, one of the first in Australia.

Located at iMH Hirondelle, a private mental health hospital in New South Wales, the program is designed to support patients through a focused 7 day hospital stay — then connect them directly to ongoing care in their community.

The hospital, a joint venture between Medibank’s Amplar Health and Aurora Healthcare, addresses a critical gap in addiction services by offering intensive inpatient and community support without the extended hospital stay.

The program is purpose-built for people who need structured treatment but can’t take weeks away from their jobs, families, or other responsibilities.

Unlike traditional programs that may require hospitalisation for 14 days or more, with limited follow up post discharge, iMH Hirondelle’s model balances hospital care with ongoing community support after discharge. Patients complete a detox phase prior to admission and spend a week immersed in evidence-based therapies, wellness activities, and peer support — before transitioning to tailored outpatient and community-based care pathways.

“Shorter inpatient stays are just the beginning,” said Dr Andrew Wilson, Medibank Group Chief Medical Officer and iMH Director.

This model ensures patients are not only treated but also supported to continue their recovery after they leave hospital, in the community. It’s intensive, but realistic — and built around real lives.

The launch comes as new figures from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reveal alcohol remains the leading substance of concern in 42% of addiction treatment episodes nationwide. Yet many Australians still struggle to access help that fits their life circumstances.

Greg, 50, a father and landscaper from Sydney’s lower North Shore, will be among the first to participate. “Fourteen days is a long time in hospital but seven? That’s possible. I can take that time, get help, and stay connected to my work and family. And I’ll have support when I leave.”

Each day of the program includes:

• 4 hours of individual and group therapy
• Guided journaling and quiet reflection in private rooms
• Structured health and wellness activities
• Peer connection and shared experiences

Located in a metropolitan setting, the hospital is expected to be especially accessible for professionals and working adults. Crucially, every participant leaves with a individual community care plan in place — ensuring support doesn’t end at discharge.