Odyssey House Family Units

In Melbourne, Australia, Odyssey House Family Units offer a unique residential rehabilitation program where parents—including single fathers—can receive treatment for drug or alcohol addiction while living with their children (ages 0–12). Unlike most rehabilitation centres, families stay together during the recovery process.
This programme combines therapy, skill-building, and community living. Residents take part in daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the property. They also help make decisions and gradually take on leadership roles in the community. A dedicated children’s centre provides care, preschool, and after-school support while parents undergo therapy.
The homes are designed to support healing and environmental sustainability. They are energy-efficient, built with mud bricks made by residents, and include native landscaping and water-saving features.
The project has been built in phases:
• Stage 1 (2004): A six-bed unit built entirely with resident labour.
• Stage 2 (2011): Two more units and a shared community building, constructed with contractor support and resident involvement.
• Stage 3 is in planning, with fundraising underway.
The programme has helped over 20,000 people and 1,000 children in Victoria over 30 years. It’s also influenced national and international policy, including a motion at the United Nations to include children in addiction treatment plans.
Residents gain job skills and rebuild confidence, often improving mental health and social stability. Funding comes from government grants, donations, and resident contributions. Construction costs were kept low through volunteer work and sustainable materials.
Odyssey House shows that treatment doesn’t have to separate families, and that recovery can be strengthened through community, dignity, and purpose.