Odyssey House NSW

Odyssey House NSW Trauma-informed alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs, education and support in New South Wales. He opened Odyssey House in Sydney on 30 October 1977.

Odyssey House in New South Wales was founded in 1977 by Sydney businessman, Walter McGrath, following the death of his son from a heroin overdose. As a testament to his son, Mr McGrath committed himself to finding a program to help other people who suffered from problems with drug dependence. Mr McGrath brought the Odyssey House concept of long term residential rehabilitation from the United State

s of America to Australia. From humble beginnings, the program has expanded to be one of the largest and most successful alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services in Australia. More than 35,000 people have been assisted over the past 40 years. Today, Odyssey House provides a diverse range of services from The Withdrawal Unit, Parents and Children’s Program, MERIT (Magistrates Early Referrals Into Treatment program), residential rehabilitation, numeracy and literacy education and community based services. Odyssey House aims to build safe and healthy communities by minimising the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs on the person’s health and by extension our society. We have a holistic treatment model that focuses on the person and helping them develop skills to cope with the underlying reasons they resorted to alcohol and other drug use. This often involves changing the habits of a lifetime and teaching self –awareness, responsibility, self-care to practical skills that have been missed due to addiction such as numeracy and literacy, life skills such as cooking and eating healthy food, budgeting and parenting. Odyssey House complements the direction of the National Drug Strategy (NDS) and aligns with the health and community goals of the NSW Government’s NSW 2021 plan. The organisation is closely linked to the Network of Alcohol and Other Drugs Agencies (NADA), and the Australian Therapeutic Communities Association (ATCA).

Three weeks until the 15th Odyssey Women’s Lunch 🎉 This annual event is a chance to celebrate the strength of families, ...
30/04/2026

Three weeks until the 15th Odyssey Women’s Lunch 🎉

This annual event is a chance to celebrate the strength of families, hear powerful stories of resilience, and help create lasting change for parents and children affected by alcohol and other drug dependence.

Since 2023, 64 children have been restored to the care of their parents through Odyssey House NSW’s Reconnecting Families Program, a reminder of what recovery can make possible.

On Thursday 21 May at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, Marcia Hines, Professor Jennifer Westacott AC, and Jessica Gallagher will join us for an inspiring afternoon of conversation and connection.

Your support helps parents and children to stay connected during recovery and build safer, more stable futures together.

We would love to see you there! ✨

Click here to purchase your tickets - https://bit.ly/4tCviyw

In Conversation with James Stevens James Stevens has supported the Odyssey Women’s Lunch for more than a decade. As the ...
23/04/2026

In Conversation with James Stevens

James Stevens has supported the Odyssey Women’s Lunch for more than a decade. As the founder of Mr. Roses, he was introduced to the event through long-standing connections and came to understand more about Odyssey’s work.

For James, supporting recovery recognises the impact on families as well as individuals, and the role community organisations play in responding to it.

He continues to support the event because of the work Odyssey does and the difference it makes.

Read more about why James continues to support the Odyssey Women’s Lunch here - https://bit.ly/4twOi1B

23/04/2026

“When times are tough, you remember who was in your corner.”

Ahead of the 15th annual Odyssey Women's Lunch, Australian music icon Marcia Hines shares her reflections on motherhood, support, and the importance of showing up for others in this feature with Women's Agenda.

Marcia speaks to the power of encouragement, empathy, and support, especially for women navigating life’s toughest moments. It is a message that resonates deeply with the work of Odyssey House NSW.

Funds raised through the Odyssey Women's Lunch 2026 support our Reconnecting Families Program, including the Family Recovery Centre, where parents and children can stay together during recovery from alcohol and other drug dependence while building safer, more stable futures. To book your ticket – see the link in the comments below.

Read the full story here and join us on Thursday 21st May for an afternoon of connection, and impact - https://womensagenda.com.au/partner-content/when-times-are-tough-you-remember-who-was-in-your-corner-marcia-hines-on-motherhood?

Thanks Women's Agenda for helping us spread the word!

A space to connect with others and focus on practical steps towards change 💙 Our LGBTQ+ SMART Recovery Australia group, ...
21/04/2026

A space to connect with others and focus on practical steps towards change 💙

Our LGBTQ+ SMART Recovery Australia group, delivered by Odyssey House NSW in partnership with ACON, runs every Tuesday in Surry Hills.

Each session offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help manage cravings, understand patterns of behaviour, and build a routine that supports your wellbeing.

The group is facilitated by clinicians and peers who are part of, or closely connected to, the LGBTQ+ community.

📍 ACON, 414 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills
🗓️ Every Tuesday
⏰ 5.30pm – 7.00pm

Register: https://bit.ly/4rP4f1G
📞 1800 397 739 (option 2)
📧 csces@odysseyhouse.com.au

Alannah’s Story 💙 When Alannah entered Odyssey House NSW’s Residential Program, she was focused on rebuilding her life. ...
20/04/2026

Alannah’s Story 💙

When Alannah entered Odyssey House NSW’s Residential Program, she was focused on rebuilding her life. By the time she graduated, she knew she wanted to return one day to support others on their journey.

Today, she’s doing exactly that. As an Aftercare Case Worker and SMART Recovery facilitator, Alannah now walks alongside clients as they navigate life beyond treatment.

Her journey reflects the strength of lived experience within the Odyssey community and the power of recovery that continues long after graduation.

Read Alannah’s full story - https://bit.ly/41F7cXB

17/04/2026

🎉 The countdown is on for the 2026 Odyssey Women’s Lunch.

Now in its 15th year, the event will take place on Thursday 21 May at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, with an inspiring line-up of speakers including Marcia Hines, Professor Jennifer Westacott AC, and Jess Gallagher.

Each year, this event brings together a community committed to supporting families navigating the challenges of alcohol and other drug dependence, and the journey toward recovery.

Funds raised help parents and children stay together during recovery, with support to build safer, more stable futures.

Check out the highlights of last year’s event below – a day shaped by connection, shared purpose, and supporting families through recovery 💙.

Secure your tickets and support families on the journey to recovery - https://bit.ly/4cxPjiy

Mohammed’s Story of Recovery 💙 What began as partying in his early twenties quickly became a cycle of substance use, cou...
15/04/2026

Mohammed’s Story of Recovery 💙

What began as partying in his early twenties quickly became a cycle of substance use, court dates, and time in and out of jail. After the loss of his father, things spiralled further.

After entering Odyssey’s Residential Program through Drug Court, Mohammed began the process of rebuilding his life.

Today, he is studying Community Services, volunteering at Odyssey, and staying connected to the people who support his recovery.

Read Mohammed’s full story here - https://bit.ly/4cnqXHY

✨ The Autumn/Winter edition of Odyssey News is here ✨ This issue shares what’s been happening across Odyssey over recent...
13/04/2026

✨ The Autumn/Winter edition of Odyssey News is here ✨

This issue shares what’s been happening across Odyssey over recent months.

Inside, you’ll find Mohammed’s story, reflections from Yabun Festival and Mardi Gras Fair Day, and updates from the visit by NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey to our Eagle Vale Residential Centre.

We also share highlights from our Odyssey Horizons lunch with NSW Health Minister Ryan Park, along with information about this year’s Odyssey Women’s Lunch.

💙 Read the latest edition and stay connected with life at Odyssey - https://bit.ly/3Og9sS8

NSW Health has released an important warning following opioid overdoses linked to substances believed to be co***ne. Bei...
01/04/2026

NSW Health has released an important warning following opioid overdoses linked to substances believed to be co***ne. Being aware of the risks and recognising the signs of overdose can help save lives. Please take a moment to read and share.

A reminder that naloxone is free in NSW and can reverse an opioid overdose, you can find out more about naloxone and where you can access it here - https://yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au/getting-help/Pages/Naloxone.aspx

NSW Health is warning the community about the dangers of unexpected drugs in co***ne, following six recent opioid overdoses in Sydney and western NSW.

Of the six people across NSW who presented to hospital in March with suspected opioid overdose after using substances they thought to be co***ne, one has required treatment in an intensive care unit.

Some of the people who presented to hospital were known to each other. Blood or urine testing of some of these people has shown that opioids such as he**in were present with co***ne.

Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, Dr Darren Roberts, said it is important people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose early and know how to respond.

“Opioids such as he**in can cause pin-point pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing/snoring and skin turning blue/grey and can be life-threatening,” Dr Roberts said.

“One of the dangers of illicit drug supply is the contents and strength of the substance you are getting is uncertain and can be inconsistent. Opioids such as he**in can be sold as or found in co***ne, methamphetamine, and M**A (ecstasy).
You cannot always tell the difference between these drugs by appearance. People who use drugs such as co***ne, methamphetamine, M**A or opioids should carry naloxone.”

If you witness someone experiencing any unexpected symptoms after using drugs, you should call Triple Zero (000) immediately or seek urgent medical attention. Naloxone should be given immediately if available.

Naloxone is an important life-saving medication that reverses the effects of opioids. It does not require a prescription and is free for anyone at risk of opioid overdose in NSW.

It is available as an easy to use nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies and other health services. For more information on the take-home naloxone program, visit: https://yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au/getting-help/Pages/Naloxone.aspx.

NUAA can mail you naloxone in a discreet package. Order via their online shop: https://shop.nuaa.org.au/ or call (02) 9171 6650.

You won't get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you feel unwell, or if your friend feels unwell, do something about it.

Anyone who has concerns about adverse effects from drugs should contact the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26, at any time 24/7, or visit: https://www.poisonsinfo.nsw.gov.au/

For support and information on drug and alcohol problems, contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015. This is a 24/7 service offering confidential and anonymous telephone counselling and information. For more information, visit: https://www.svhs.org.au/our-services/list-of-services/alcohol-drug-service/alcohol-drug-information-service

NSW public drug warnings can be found here: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/drugalerts

Join us at the Odyssey Women’s Lunch this May and be part of an event that creates real, lasting change 💙 Now in its 15t...
27/03/2026

Join us at the Odyssey Women’s Lunch this May and be part of an event that creates real, lasting change 💙

Now in its 15th year, the event brings together a community of supporters to raise vital funds for families experiencing challenges with alcohol and other drug dependence.

📅 Thursday 21 May 2026
📍 Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
🕛 12:00pm – 3:00pm

Funds raised support our Family Recovery Centre, where parents and children can recover together in a safe, home-like environment, with 24/7 support tailored to each family’s needs.

Buy your tickets here and support a family in need - https://bit.ly/4lPmoe9

Partnerships like this show what’s possible when corporate giving is aligned with long-term impact. We’re grateful to h...
26/03/2026

Partnerships like this show what’s possible when corporate giving is aligned with long-term impact.

We’re grateful to have received a 2025 CommBank Staff Foundation Community Grant, with $20,000 supporting renovations at our Eagle Vale Residential Recovery Centre.

These upgrades will help ensure people have a safe, welcoming space where they can focus on rebuilding their lives, with the dignity and support they deserve.

When organisations choose to back work like this, it strengthens the support available not just to individuals, but to families and communities over the long term.

Thank you to the Commonwealth Bank staff who contribute through Workplace Giving. Your support is helping more people take positive steps forward.

Commonwealth Bank

Thank you, ICAP 💙 We had so much fun at the 2025 ICAP Charity Day, which raised an incredible $10.7 million AUD for char...
24/03/2026

Thank you, ICAP 💙

We had so much fun at the 2025 ICAP Charity Day, which raised an incredible $10.7 million AUD for charities around the world!

The funds raised will directly support renovations at our Eagle Vale Residential Recovery Centre, helping us create a safer, more comfortable and supportive environment for the people and families we work with.

Support like this has a real and lasting impact, ensuring more people can access the care they need to rebuild their lives.

Thank you to ICAP and everyone involved for your generosity and commitment to making a difference.

Address

Ground Floor 2/199 Regent Street Redfern
Sydney, NSW
2016

Telephone

1800 397 739

Website

https://give.odysseyhouse.com.au/

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Odyssey House in New South Wales was founded in 1977 by Sydney businessman, Walter McGrath, following the death of his son from a he**in overdose. As a testament to his son, Mr McGrath committed himself to finding a program to help other people who suffered from problems with drug dependence. Mr McGrath brought the Odyssey House concept of long term residential rehabilitation from the United States of America to Australia. He opened Odyssey House in Sydney on 30 October 1977. From humble beginnings, the program has expanded to be one of the largest and most successful alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services in Australia. More than 35,000 people have been assisted over the past 40 years. Today, Odyssey House provides a diverse range of services from The Withdrawal Unit, Parents and Children’s Program, MERIT (Magistrates Early Referrals Into Treatment program), residential rehabilitation, numeracy and literacy education and community based services. Odyssey House aims to build safe and healthy communities by minimising the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs on the person’s health and by extension our society. We have a holistic treatment model that focuses on the person and helping them develop skills to cope with the underlying reasons they resorted to alcohol and other drug use. This often involves changing the habits of a lifetime and teaching self –awareness, responsibility, self-care to practical skills that have been missed due to addiction such as numeracy and literacy, life skills such as cooking and eating healthy food, budgeting and parenting. Odyssey House complements the direction of the National Drug Strategy (NDS) and aligns with the health and community goals of the NSW Government’s NSW 2021 plan. The organisation is closely linked to the Network of Alcohol and Other Drugs Agencies (NADA), and the Australian Therapeutic Communities Association (ATCA).