People living with eating disorders in NSW can now access specialist residential care with the opening of a new $13.5 million Residential Eating Disorders Centre in Newcastle.
Named Baiyangbaiyaang, an Aboriginal name meaning 'Butterfly - the one who flutters', the two-storey, 12-bed facility in Charlestown is the first publicly funded service of its kind in NSW.
Suitable for people aged 16 and older with a diagnosed eating disorder, the centre provides evidence-based interventions in a nurturing, home-like environment.
Baiyangbaiyaang is designed to bridge the gap between community-based care and hospital admission, offering personalised service for those who are ready to take an active role in their recovery and enhance their quality of life.
Residents may stay at the centre for up to three months, depending on their progress. They will receive individualised support from a multi-disciplinary team of specialists including psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, nurses, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists and social workers.
A range of support and daily wellness activities will help residents increase their independence and continue their recovery journey at home, including psychotherapy, grocery shopping, cooking classes, and gentle movement sessions.
The funding is part of a $63 million Commonwealth commitment to deliver seven eating disorder care centres nationally.
Residential care will begin in the coming weeks, helping provide support for people across NSW. All referrals to the facility must be completed online by a treating practitioner. Admissions will be based on clinical presentation and need.
The centre will complement other eating disorder services across NSW, including local health district day programs and community-based therapies.
Residents and their families travelling long distances to the centre may also be eligible for travel and accommodation subsidies under the IPTAAS scheme.
If you, or anyone you know, is experiencing an eating disorder or body image concerns, contact the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 (ED HOPE) or visit Butterfly.
NSW Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said:
"This centre represents a massive step forward in how we support people living with eating disorders.
"For the first time in NSW, those in need will have access to dedicated, publicly funded services to provide the care they deserve, supporting individuals and their families at a crucial point in their recovery journey."
Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison MP said:
"Baiyangbaiyaang is an important addition to the supports available to people living with eating disorders in Charlestown and the Newcastle area.
"It presents a next step for them on the road to independence and improved wellbeing. It's a great example of all levels of governments working together on important health issues in our communities."
The Hon. EmilySuvaal said:
"Facilities like this can have a lasting positive impact and I'm very proud to see increased support for people with eating disorders.
"Baiyanbaiyaang will offer life-saving support to people in a calm, safe and welcoming environment, guiding them on the road to recovery."
Director Mental Health Services, Hunter New England Local Health District Dr Anand Swamy said:
"The centre will complement existing services, such as the state-wide Eating Disorders Day Program and community-based services."
CEO of the Butterfly Foundation Dr Jim Hungerford said:
"For too long, people with eating disorders in NSW have struggled to access the specialised care they need. The Butterfly Foundation will continue to share our learnings and insights with the service."
