- Published:
- Friday 17 April 2026 at 1:30 pm
The Allan Labor Government is bringing specialist care, closer to home for people in the Mallee.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today announced that AW Nicholson has been appointed to build the new $36 million residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility in Merbein.
Located at 13 Jenner Street, the 32-bed adult residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility is the first of its kind in the region.
For people seeking drug and alcohol support, it will mean they can get the care they need, closer to home.
The facility will support around 200 people each year.
It will provide 24/7 support and care to ensure the safety and wellbeing of consumers and staff as well as the wider Mallee community.
Designs of the courtyard and internal lounge areas have also been released today.
The facility will include consulting rooms, staff and support areas, along with several shared spaces such as a kitchen, dining area, internal lounges, and landscaped areas for outdoor program activities.
In a boost for the local economy, the project is expected to create more than 100 jobs at the peak of construction.
Construction works will commence in the coming weeks.
The facility will be managed by Sunraysia Community Health Services in a consortium partnership with Mildura Base Public Hospital, Odyssey House Victoria and Mallee District Aboriginal Services.
Since 2015, the Allan Labor Government has doubled the number of residential rehabilitation beds across the state.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
“This centre is the first of its kind in the region.”
“For locals needing drug and alcohol support, this will provide a home-away-from-home where they can get the care they need, close to family and friends.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
“Addiction can have a devasting impact on families, friends and loved ones – when this centre is complete it will help people get the care they need whilst remaining close to home.”