How Much Does Rehab Cost in Australia? Full Price Breakdown, Options & What to Expect in 2025

If you're thinking about getting help for addiction, one of the biggest questions on your mind might be: "How much does rehab cost in Australia?"

It’s a fair concern. Prices can swing wildly depending on where you go, how long you stay, and what kind of care you need. But here's the thing: getting clean doesn't have to mean going broke.

This guide walks you through what rehab might cost in Australia in 2025—whether you’re looking at public, private, or even international options for alcohol and drug rehabilitation.

How Much Does Rehab Cost in Australia? [2025 Update]

Before we dive into more details, here’s an interesting fact about rehab costs in Australia.

Here’s a quick snapshot of average rehab prices:

• Outpatient Programmes: $60 – $180 per session

• Inpatient Residential Rehab: $5,000 – $30,000+ per month

• Luxury or Executive Rehabs: $40,000 – $120,000+ per month

• Government-Funded Rehab: Free or low-cost (if you qualify)

Rehab costs vary based on the kind of treatment you need, the facility’s approach, and your location.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Rehab in Australia?

Type of Programme

There are two main types: outpatient and inpatient.

• Outpatient programmes let you live at home while attending regular sessions. They're generally less expensive and more flexible, making them suitable for those balancing work and family responsibilities.

• Inpatient or residential rehab involves staying at a facility full-time. It’s more intensive and includes accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock care. This kind of setup is ideal for more serious or long-term addiction cases but comes at a higher cost, and disruption to life responsibilities.

Length of Stay

Rehab stays vary in length - common durations are 28, 60, or 90 days, though some may last longer.

• Shorter programmes cost less upfront but may not be enough for deeply rooted issues.

• Longer stays offer more time to address underlying causes and build recovery skills, but the extended support comes at a higher price.

Amenities and Comfort

This is where costs can really vary.

• Basic programmes focus on core treatment - counselling, group therapy, and medication if needed.

• On the luxury end, some centres offer private rooms, swimming pools, personal chefs, massage therapy, and yoga.

• While these extras aren’t necessary for everyone, they can improve comfort and mental wellbeing, which may aid in recovery.

Location

Where you go affects what you pay.

• Clinics in big cities or coastal regions often charge more due to higher demand and overhead costs.

• Rural or regional centres might be more affordable but may offer fewer amenities.

• Some people even choose international rehab options to balance cost and quality (more on that later).

All these factors combine to shape your final rehab cost, so it’s important to align your needs with what’s realistic for your budget and lifestyle.

Government-Funded vs Private Rehab: Which Suits You Best?

In Australia, both government-supported and private rehab options are available.

Public (Government-Funded) Rehab

• Services such as ADATS provide free or affordable alcohol and drug rehab support.

• Expect waitlists and standardised care models.

Private Rehab

• Faster intake and more tailored addiction treatment options.

• Costs vary but offer greater comfort and customisation.

The right choice often depends on urgency, affordability, and personal preferences.

How Much Does Overseas Rehab Cost Compared to Australia?

The idea of going overseas for addiction treatment might sound extreme at first, but it's becoming a popular option for Australians who want effective care without the steep price tag.

Typical Overseas Costs

• Between $8,000 and $25,000 per month for full-service rehabilitation

• Costs often include accommodation, meals, therapy sessions, and wellness activities

This is significantly lower than what you’d pay for a luxury or executive rehab centre in Australia, which can easily exceed $40,000 per month.

Overseas rehab centres especially in places like Bali or Thailand offer attractive packages that combine quality care with comfortable, even resort-like settings. Many have English-speaking staff and internationally recognised clinical programs.

Reasons to Consider It

• Separation from everyday triggers: Being away from familiar environments can help clients focus more deeply on recovery.

• Discreet and peaceful settings: Many overseas centres offer privacy and tranquility ideal for healing.

Of course, travelling overseas isn’t the right choice for everyone. You’ll need to factor in travel costs, being away from family, and ensuring the facility is reputable.

But for many, it’s a practical, high-quality alternative to domestic private rehab—without the premium price tag.

First Step If You’re Worried About Rehab Costs in Australia

Assessing rehab costs can feel overwhelming, but the first and most important step is to gather accurate information about your options and potential financial support.

Here’s how to get started:

Research Public and Private Funding Options

• Public Funding: In Australia, government-funded rehab programs and charity-run services are available, often at low or no cost to eligible individuals. These programs are subsidised through Medicare, government grants, or donations, but may have waiting lists and eligibility requirements.

  
  

• Private Funding: Private rehab facilities offer faster access and a wider range of amenities, but costs can vary dramatically—from around $4,000 to $15,000 for a standard 30-day program, up to $100,000 or more for luxury options.

Contact Treatment Providers for a Cost Breakdown

• Reach out to rehab centres (both public and private) and ask for a detailed breakdown of fees, including any potential hidden costs such as medications, aftercare, travel, and assessments.

  
  

• Many providers offer free initial assessments to help you understand your needs and the likely costs involved.

Explore Financial Assistance and Support

• Medicare/Public Health: Some or all costs may be covered by government healthcare, especially for public facilities.

• Private Health Insurance: Check your policy to see if it covers addiction treatment and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.

• Charities and Social Programs: Organisations and support groups (like Alcoholics Anonymous) may offer free or low-cost support.

• Payment Plans: Some private clinics offer flexible payment plans to help spread out costs.

Consider Lower-Cost Alternatives

• Outpatient programs, online counselling, and support groups can be far more affordable than inpatient treatment, with costs ranging from $60 to $180 per session, or as little as $2,000–$4,000 per month for regular outpatient care.

• Free or low-cost community services are also available in many areas.

Superannuation – A Viable Option to Fund Private Rehab

If you're struggling to cover the cost of private rehab and need treatment urgently, early access to your superannuation is worth considering. Here's how it works:

• Eligibility: You must show that your treatment is medically necessary, and not readily available through public health services in a reasonable timeframe.

• Certification: Two medical practitioners (one must be a specialist) need to verify that your condition qualifies for early super release.

• Application: Submit a request via the Australian Tax Office (ATO) under the ‘compassionate grounds’ category.

• Processing Time: Once approved, the funds are released from your super to cover treatment expenses directly.

Tip: Many rehab providers in Australia can help you with this application process to speed things up and reduce the stress.

Access Support With SuperCare Now

Ask for a Free Recovery Assessment

Several reputable providers offer free recovery planning sessions - these can help you understand what level of care you need, how long it might take, and what payment or support options make the most sense for you.

Final Thoughts: The Real Price of Recovery

Addiction comes with invisible costs - lost time, broken trust, declining health. But in Australia, there are rehab solutions for every budget: outpatient, luxury retreats, and everything in between.

Whether you're dealing with alcohol or drug dependency, what matters most is taking that first step.

Book a free consultation and find out if Reset My Future is the right fit for where you are—and where you want to go.

About the Author

Graeme Alford, founder of Reset My Future, helps people reset their thinking and take back control—without needing to hit rock bottom.

Graeme Alford is the founder of Reset My Future and has been sober for over 40 years. Once a high-functioning alcoholic whose addiction cost him everything—including his career and freedom—Graeme rebuilt his life from the ground up. Today, he leads a one-on-one recovery program that helps people stop drinking, reset their thinking, and start living a life they’re proud of.He holds a Diploma in Alcohol, Other Drugs & Mental Health and has worked with hundreds of clients who want a real alternative to traditional rehab. His approach blends lived experience with evidence-based strategies—and a deep belief that no one is too far gone to change.