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Alcohol and other drugs 18 September 2025

Designs released for residential alcohol and other drugs rehabilitation facility for the Mallee

We’re building a $36 million residential alcohol and other drugs facility for the Mallee.

The new facility will make it easier for people to access support, and treatment closer to home – without needing to travel long distances or leave the local support networks they rely on.

It will be the first facility of its kind in the region and will be located at 13 Jenner Street in Merbein.

Early designs showcase the external entry and a look inside a bedroom.

  • Single storey and private: located in the southwest corner of the site, with landscaping and screening for privacy.
  • Safe and welcoming: interiors, courtyards and outdoor spaces are designed with visibility and safety in mind, with separate spaces available for women and families.
  • Inspired by the local landscape: the building is designed to complement the local surroundings, with the use of rammed earth throughout the building reflecting the local environment.
  • Landscaping: mature trees are preserved and featured in the design, with native plants used in the landscaping.
  • Natural colour palette: natural and neutral tones, inspired by local plants, are intended to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
  • Parking: a sealed road from Jenner Street will lead to an onsite car park, including accessible car parks.
  • Strong security measures: 24/7 on site staff, controlled visitation, CCTV, secure doors and swipe card access. 

Community consultation report

The designs were shaped by consultation with local stakeholders including health services, clinicians, staff, consumers, and the broader community.

We conducted stakeholder and community consultation to seek input on priorities for key areas of the design. Here are some of the ways we engaged:

  • survey on Engage Victoria, November 2024 – January 2025
  • drop-in community information session at Merbein, February 2025
  • consultation with Merbein traders and locals adjacent to the site, August 2025
  • print and digital community updates, January and August 2025.

The early facility designs reflect a shared vision for a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment. 

Find out what we heard by reading the community consultation report.

Learn more about the new residential alcohol and other drugs rehabilitation facility for the Mallee.

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Last updated: 18 September 2025