Overview
Foundation House offers a structured 28-day residential program for adults recovering from drug, alcohol, and gambling addictions. Situated in a tranquil waterfront setting within Sydney's Callan Park, the facility provides a peaceful environment for healing and reflection. Their holistic, 12-step based model combines evidence-based therapies with practical life skills training to equip clients for a successful return to daily life. Originally established for the construction industry workforce, Foundation House now welcomes the general public, providing affordable, high-quality care with a strong focus on community and peer support. Visit their website here.
Facility
Video
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Amenities & Details
Your First Step is a Conversation
Reaching out can feel overwhelming, but you're not alone. The admissions team is here to listen without judgment and help you understand your options.
- Your call is 100% confidential. Speak with Foundation House's admissions.
- There's no commitment to enroll. They're here to answer questions.
- Talk next steps clearly. Discuss costs and what treatment looks like.
Treatment
Levels of Care
Residential Program
Immersive, 24/7 structured care.
Outpatient Counselling
Flexible support for ongoing recovery.
Aftercare Program
Maintaining sobriety for the long term.
Approaches
Policies
Sobriety Requirement
5 days clean from substances, 14 from buprenorphine/methadone.
Pre-Admission Detox
May be required before entering the program.
Mandatory Participation
All groups and activities are compulsory.
Electronics Policy
No personal phones allowed; returned at graduation.
Visitation Policy
No physical visitors; virtual visits on weekends.
Drug & Alcohol Testing
Required on admission and conducted randomly.
Payment & Cost
Payment Structure
Foundation House is an affordable program that charges a weekly rent. Treatment is free for Public Service Association (PSA) members and their immediate families.
Enquire About CostsSelf-Pay
Self-pay options are available. Please call to confirm exact pricing.
- Weekly Rent (Full Board): $230 - $300
- Urine Analysis Fee (on admission): $35
- Security Deposit: $100
Reviews & Testimonials
Based on 18 Google reviews
What Clients Appreciate
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Caring Staff: Praised for being genuine, compassionate, and professional.
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Effective Program: Described as life-saving, providing essential recovery tools.
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Supportive Community: The "family" atmosphere is highlighted as key to healing.
"This place saved my life. Amazing staff. You get back what you put in. Highly recommended."
"Foundation House has incredible staff who are so real and genuine. FH has been my saving grace and a solid foundation in my recovery... Would recommend this rehab to anyone who is wanting to have a real go at life."
View additional context from reviews
While reviews for Foundation House are overwhelmingly positive, it's worth noting that negative feedback is exceptionally rare. The few critical points that can be found online tend to focus on specific interpersonal issues or disagreements with the program's structure rather than systemic problems.
Tip: The program's success often hinges on a client's willingness to engage with the 12-step model and structured community living.
Location & Contact
Address
Foundation House502 Wharf Rd
Lilyfield, NSW 2040, Australia
Hours
Admissions: Mon-Fri, 9:30am - 5pm
Residential programs operate 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs & Admission
How do I pay the rent and deposit?
Foundation House will accept cash, Visa/Mastercard or banking details can be provided for a direct deposit.
What happens if I can’t pay the deposit?
After the assessment you will be notified by the staff member to deposit the $100 fee and once that has been received an admission date will be provided.
Do I still check in after the assessment?
Yes! Every Monday and Friday between 9.00am and 1.00pm
What time do I need to arrive?
9:30am Tuesday and Thursday are the admission times.
Do I need to provide my criminal history?
Yes, if you have a criminal history (or prior jail sentence) you will need to provide a criminal history prior to admission. If you do not have one you will need to apply for it online and follow the instructions. You can lodge an application for a criminal check at the following: https://npcoapr.police.nsw.gov.au/aspx/dataentry/Introduction.aspx
Treatment Details
Does this program use the 12-steps?
Yes, the program utilizes a 12-step treatment approach, including self-help meetings.
Is the program faith-based?
The program is based on the 12-step model, which incorporates a spiritual component (a “higher power” of one's own understanding) but is not affiliated with any specific religion or faith.
Is Suboxone (MAT) permitted?
Clients must be 14 days clean from buprenorphine (Suboxone) or methadone before admission, which suggests that Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is not continued during the residential stay.
Do you provide detoxification services?
No, clients who require detoxification must complete it at another facility before being admitted to Foundation House.
How do you treat co-occurring mental disorders?
Clients with co-occurring disorders are referred for external medical or mental health services as needed. There is no in-house psychiatric program.
Who provides care here?
Care is provided by a team of counsellors, case managers, peer support staff, and group facilitators. Specific credentials are not listed on the website.
What types of therapies do you use?
The program includes group work, individual counselling, case management, self-help meetings, CBT, and training in life skills, communication, and financial literacy.
What aftercare support is available?
Aftercare includes weekly relapse prevention groups, peer support BBQs, and ongoing family support groups to ensure long-term success.
Daily Life, Rules & Family
What is the living situation like? Can I get my own room?
It is a residential rehab centre with shared accommodation in a comfortable, home-like setting on the tranquil, waterfront grounds of Callan Park. The facility offers shared accommodation only.
Is this a closed/locked facility?
This information is not explicitly stated on their website. It is best to ask their admissions team directly for clarification.
Can I use my mobile phone whilst in the program?
No, mobile phones will be required to be surrendered on the day of admission and returned on the day of graduation.
Is smoking/vaping allowed?
This information is not specified on their website. Please inquire with their admissions staff for their policy on smoking and vaping.
What should I bring?
You only need to bring clothes, toiletries and money. Weather permitting, we may go to the beach, so please bring swimmers!
Who else will be in treatment with me?
The program is co-ed for adults 18 and over with an occupancy of 15+ clients. It was originally established for the construction industry workforce but now serves the general public and Public Service Association members.
Can I make phone calls?
Telephone calls can be made on the eighth (8th) day from your admission. Phone calls are limited to 10 minutes and can only be used at certain times.
Can I have visitors?
No, we do not have physical visits at Foundation House. We have time allocated on Saturdays and Sundays to facilitate virtual visits via FaceTime or Zoom.
Is there any support for the Families?
Yes, Foundation House provides a Family Support Group held at Foundation House on a Monday Evening 7.30pm-9.30pm.
Does my family need to book for the Family Support Group?
We ask that you give us a call on (02) 9810 3117 and we will put you in touch with our Family Support Facilitator.
Are there gym facilities at Foundation House?
No, although you will go on a walk each morning weather permitting, and Yoga twice a week.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Their team is available to answer your questions confidentially.
Call NowAccreditation & Support
CFMEU Supported
Supported by the Construction, Forestry, & Maritime Union.
PSA Member Access
Free treatment for Public Service Association members.