Frequently Asked Questions
Program & Services
What’s the difference between detox and rehab?
Detox removes substances from the body (often about a week), while rehab focuses on the skills, therapy, structure, and lifestyle changes needed for long-term recovery.
Does Gunnebah offer detox?
Gunnebah can include withdrawal support, but if you’re assessed as high-risk on arrival, you may be referred to a medical detox or mental health facility for your wellbeing.
What does a typical week look like?
A structured routine includes morning exercise (e.g., yoga/group fitness), daily group check-ins, topic-based group sessions during the week, individual therapy twice weekly, medical support, creative/mindfulness activities, and supervised off-site activities.
How much one-on-one therapy will I receive?
You’ll receive two individual therapy sessions each week, as part of the program. Individual therapy is where we tailor the work to you, your triggers, patterns, goals, and the practical steps you need to stay on track after you leave.
Do you include family therapy?
A family counselling session is included in the program inclusions, and some guests also choose to take advantage of family therapy opportunities while in the program.
What kinds of activities are included?
Activities vary by season and can include bushwalking, surfing, kayaking, cycling, yoga, Pilates, boxercise, golf, archery, team building, day trips, meditation, and more.
Do you run a 12-step program?
We are not a 12-step facility, but we recognise that 12-step recovery can be very helpful for many people. For those who want it, we provide access to AA/NA meetings (weekly, alternating). Our approach is about supporting you to find what works best for you and building a sustainable plan.
Is Gunnebah a residential program (do I live on-site)
Yes. Gunnebah is residential, meaning you stay on-site for the duration of your program. This helps you step away from everyday triggers and focus fully on recovery in a stable, supportive routine.
How long do I need to stay?
Can I extend my stay if I’m not ready to leave?
Often, yes. If you don’t feel ready at the end of your planned stay, we can discuss options. We’ll look at what you need clinically, what supports you’ll have at home, and whether extending is the most helpful next step for you.
Do you create an aftercare plan before I leave?
Yes, you’ll be supported to develop a personalised aftercare plan during your stay
Pricing & Payments
How much does treatment cost?
Our published program fee is $22,120 for 28 days, and then $790 per day for each day after that.
What’s included in the program fee?
Your fee is designed to be as all-inclusive as possible. It includes accommodation, meals, a structured program, therapy/counselling, group sessions, activities, drug testing, linen and towels, laundry access, airport pickup service, and an aftercare plan plus medical support as described on the program inclusions.
What is not included?
Examples listed: unexpected significant medical needs/evacuation, prescriptions/supplements, malicious damage, removal costs if excluded and refusing to leave, legal/employer reports, toiletries, spending money, certain extra documentation, and post-program therapy/group options (which have separate pricing).
Are there any extra costs I should plan for?
Most people don’t need much extra. However, there are some exclusions to be aware of, such as prescriptions and supplements, toiletries, spending money, unexpected significant medical needs/evacuation, and certain reports or documentation requests (for legal/employer purposes). We outline exclusions so you can plan clearly and avoid surprises.
Do I need to pay in advance?
Yes. Full payment is required in advance to reserve your place. This allows us to secure staffing and resources for your admission and care.
Can private health insurance cover Gunnebah?
Unfortunately, in most cases private health insurance does not cover the cost of staying in a private residential addiction recovery facility like Gunnebah. Depending on your policy, insurance may assist with a hospital detox if required, but it typically won’t fund residential rehabilitation.
If I leave early, do I get a refund?
The first 28 days are stated as non-refundable if you leave early; days beyond that may be refunded pro-rata if paid in advance, unless you are asked to leave (involuntary discharge), in which case payments made are non-refundable.
Facilities & Accommodation
Do I get my own room?
Yes. Guests stay in private rooms. Having your own space helps you rest, reflect, and reset which is an important part of recovery.
Are bathrooms private?
Bathrooms and toilets are shared. We do our best to keep facilities comfortable and practical, and shared amenities are part of how we keep the environment communal while still protecting personal privacy through private bedrooms.
Is there air conditioning?
Rooms have ceiling fans but no air conditioning. In winter, heaters are provided. Gunnebah is in the hinterland, and temperatures are generally comfortable, but we recommend packing appropriate clothing for warm days and cooler evenings.
What facilities are available on-site?
Facilities mentioned include a hall used for fitness/yoga/activities, a gym, private consultation rooms, and outdoor areas.
Is exercise part of the program?
Yes, morning exercise is part of the weekly routine, with facilities like a gym and pool referenced.
Do you provide laundry and linen?
Yes, linen (bedding/towels) and laundry facilities are listed as included.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
Unfortunately, no. We intentionally do not provide Wi-Fi to guests because one of the most helpful parts of the treatment is stepping back from constant online stimulation and everyday distractions. We do provide limited internet access via guest computers, but please note the connection is satellite-based and data is limited.
Can I bring my laptop or tablet?
We strongly encourage guests not to bring a laptop or tablet unless it’s genuinely required for work or study. Most people find they get more out of the program when they are fully present and not pulled back into work, emails, or online habits that often reinforce stress and avoidance. If you feel you need a device for a specific reason, talk to us before you arrive.
| What to Bring | What Not to Bring |
|---|---|
| Comfortable everyday clothing (enough for day-to-day plus layering). We’re in the hinterland, so mornings/evenings can be cooler and days can be warm. | Alcohol or any alcohol-containing items. These undermine the safety and integrity of a recovery environment and can put other guests at risk. |
| Exercise clothes + supportive trainers. Movement is part of the weekly routine, and comfortable gear makes it easier to participate. | Illicit drugs or any non-prescribed substances. Even “just in case” items can lead to significant risk and may affect your ability to remain in the program. |
| Comfortable walking shoes for supervised outdoor activities and off-site outings. | Unboxed or non-prescribed medications. Medication safety and transparency are essential; anything not prescribed to you (or not in original packaging) may be confiscated. |
| A warm layer (hoodie/jumper/light jacket) for cooler evenings and early mornings. | Large amounts of cash or valuables. Recovery is much easier when you’re not worrying about expensive items; if you bring valuables, you are responsible for them. |
| Personal toiletries (toothbrush/paste, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, skincare, personal hygiene items). Familiar items help you settle quickly. | Laptops/tablets (unless genuinely required). We strongly encourage minimising devices because screens, work and online habits can distract from recovery. If you need one for work/study, discuss it with us first. |
| Prescription medications in original packaging (and disclose them on entry). This keeps medication use safe, clear and properly managed. | Multiple phones / extra devices. We encourage keeping tech minimal so you can stay present and reduce exposure to triggers and distractions. |
| Glasses/contacts and anything required for daily functioning (including supports like braces if you use them). | Anything that could be used to hide or consume substances. If you’re unsure about an item, ask us before arrival. |
| A small amount of spending money (optional). Most essentials are included, but some guests like a small amount for personal items. | Pets. Unfortunately, no. We already have animals at Gunnebah and bringing additional pets can disrupt the animals and the group environment. |
| Optional: a journal/book. Many guests find simple offline tools helpful for reflection and building new habits. | Anything you’re uncertain about. If you’re unsure, contact us first. It’s always better to clarify upfront than feel stressed on admission day. |
Conditions Treated
What substances and behaviours do you treat?
We treat a wide range of substance addictions including alcohol, marijuana, ice, prescription drugs, cocaine, synthetic drugs, and gambling. Where appropriate, we may also work with behavioural addictions alongside substance use, because they often occur together and are driven by similar patterns.
Do you treat mental health conditions?
Gunnebah is not a mental health facility. Many guests experience anxiety, depression, trauma symptoms, or emotional distress alongside addiction, and we can support people within our program where it is safe and appropriate. However, if someone has serious unmanaged mental health issues that require specialist psychiatric care or a higher level of supervision, we may recommend a different service better suited to those needs.
Are there conditions you don’t treat?
Yes. For safety and suitability, we do not treat eating disorders, serious anger management issues, serious unmanaged mental health issues, or people with a serious history of perpetrating violence. If you’re unsure, please contact us. We ’d rather have an honest conversation upfront and help guide you to the right support.
| Conditions We Treat | Conditions We Do Not Treat |
|---|---|
| Alcohol addiction — including dependence and problematic drinking patterns that are impacting health, relationships, work, or daily functioning. | Serious unmanaged mental health issues — we are not a mental health facility, so if someone requires acute psychiatric care or a higher level of supervision, a specialist service is usually more appropriate. |
| Marijuana (cannabis) addiction — including long-term use, dependency, and difficulty stopping despite negative consequences. | Eating disorders — these require specialised treatment models and a different clinical environment than our program provides. |
| Ice / methamphetamine addiction — including patterns of use that affect mood, sleep, stability, and safety.. | Serious anger management issues — where the level of anger or volatility could compromise safety in a group environment. |
| Prescription drug addiction — such as dependence on pain medications, benzodiazepines, or other prescribed substances being misused. | Serious history of perpetrating violence — we need to protect the safety of all guests and staff in a residential setting. |
| Cocaine addiction — including binge use and recurring relapse patterns. | — |
| Synthetic drugs — including use patterns that have created dependence, instability, or harmful consequences. | — |
| Gambling addiction — where gambling behaviour is causing significant harm financially, emotionally, or relationally. | — |
Admissions & Eligibility
Can people under 18 come to Gunnebah?
Unfortunately, no. Generally, it is more effective for teenagers to participate in programs specifically focused on teens, due to their unique stage of life and their different social and program needs.
Do I have to want to be there?
Yes. Gunnebah is a voluntary program, and guests need to be willing to participate. Real change is possible, even if you feel uncertain or nervous, but the best outcomes happen when someone can engage honestly and commit to the process.
What happens before I’m accepted?
Before entry, we complete an assessment with the therapy team and review your medical information so we can understand your needs and ensure the program is safe and suitable. This also helps us identify if you may require medical detox before admission.
What happens on entry day?
On arrival, you’ll have a medical consultation, an interview with the therapy team, orientation to the program, and you’ll review important expectations and terms for staying at Gunnebah. We want you to feel clear, supported, and settled from day one.
When can I be admitted?
Admissions occur on Monday, and you must arrive before 2pm. This timing is important because it allows us to complete medical checks and settle you in safely without rushing or disrupting the program.
What could stop me being admitted on arrival?
If you arrive outside the admission window, withhold important information, or are assessed as high risk on arrival (e.g., withdrawal risk or acute mental health concerns), we may not be able to admit you immediately. In those cases, we may recommend a medical detox or mental health service first, not as a punishment, but because the safest care needs to match the situation.
Location & Travel
Where is Gunnebah?
We are located at 586 Nobbys Creek Rd, Nobbys Creek, NSW, in a private hinterland setting. The environment is intentionally quiet and removed from everyday triggers, while still being close to essential services if needed.
How far is it from Gold Coast Airport?
Gunnebah is approximately 35 minutes from Gold Coast International Airport.
How far is it from Brisbane?
Approximately 90 minutes.
Do you offer airport pickup?
Yes. Airport pickup (Gold Coast International Airport) and pickup from nearby towns is listed as included. This helps reduce stress on admission day and ensures you arrive safely and on time.
What mobile reception is available?
Reception depends on your provider. Telstra (and Telstra-related providers) works best. Optus is now poor, and Vodafone is limited or may not work on the property. If staying connected matters for you, consider organising a Telstra SIM before arrival.
During Your Stay (Rules, Safety & Expectations)
Can I leave during my stay?
Because Gunnebah is a residential program, we need to know where you are at all times for safety and duty-of-care reasons. Some off-site activities are supervised and part of the program. In some circumstances, leaving with family or approved support may be possible, but it must be discussed and approved in advance. Leaving without consent may mean you cannot return to the program.
What happens if I use alcohol or drugs during the program?
We take safety and integrity of the program seriously. Being intoxicated, possessing alcohol or non-prescribed drugs, refusing drug testing, or continuing substance use may lead to exclusion from the program. This is not about judgment. It’s about protecting you, other guests, and the recovery environment.
Substance use & testing: do you drug test?
Yes. Drug testing is part of maintaining a safe, recovery-focused environment for everyone. Testing supports accountability and helps protect the integrity of the program, especially in early recovery when lapses can happen.
What behaviours may lead to exclusion (being asked to leave)?
Involuntary discharge is rare, but it can happen if someone’s behaviour makes the program unsafe or unworkable. This may include arriving intoxicated, possessing or using alcohol/non-prescribed drugs, refusing testing, theft or illegal behaviour, ongoing disruption to the program, leaving without consent, or withholding critical information that affects safety and suitability. Sometimes discharge can also occur if someone becomes medically or psychologically unstable and needs a higher level of care.
Are relationships allowed between guests?
We discourage relationships between guests, because early recovery is a vulnerable time and relationships can easily become a distraction or a substitute coping strategy. Sexual activity between guests can result in exclusion from the program to protect boundaries and keep the environment safe and focused.
Property damage: what if I accidentally damage something?
Accidents can happen. If something is damaged accidentally, the best approach is to let staff know immediately so it can be addressed calmly and fairly. Where damage is malicious or significant, additional costs may apply, and it may impact your ability to remain in the program.
Can I keep my phone?
You may bring one phone. Many guests choose to limit use because constant calls, social media, and messaging can keep you emotionally tied to stressors back home. We encourage you to focus on your recovery while you’re here, and we can support you to create healthy boundaries around phone use during your stay.
Do I have to participate in activities?
Yes. Participation is part of the commitment you make by attending. We understand not every activity will feel comfortable at first, but consistent engagement is often where the biggest breakthroughs happen — and we’ll support you to take it one step at a time.
Family, Visitors & Support
Can my family visit?
Yes. Sundays are available for friends and family to visit, and they are welcome for lunch. Visits can be an important part of rebuilding trust and connection, but we also encourage families to respect the structure of the program and keep visits supportive and recovery-focused.
Do you offer family counselling?
Yes. A family counselling session is included in the program fee. Family work can help clarify boundaries, improve communication, and create a healthier support system for when you return home.
Aftercare & Ongoing Support
What happens after I leave Gunnebah?
Before you finish, we help you create a personalised aftercare plan. Recovery doesn’t end when you leave — it continues through ongoing support, routine, accountability, and healthy connection. Aftercare planning is about making sure you’re not walking out with “hope only,” but with a practical pathway.
Do you offer ongoing sessions after discharge?
Yes. Individual follow-up sessions may be available onsite or via video conference at $175 per session (paid in advance). These sessions help you maintain momentum and navigate challenges as you re-enter daily life.
Do you run an aftercare group?
Yes. We offer a weekly online aftercare group facilitated by a therapist, with a $50/week subscription. This can be a helpful way to stay connected and supported after residential treatment.