A new, purpose-built centre for South Australians living with eating disorders will open at the Repat Health Precinct, made possible by a partnership between the Federal and State Governments and Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation.

The new centre will be providing a fully integrated service from the ages of 16 years upwards, inclusive of a five-bed residential unit, Day program, Family Based Therapy, Outpatients clinics, Flinders University Research Hub, and Genetic lab.

The patients’ journey will be the focal point in the design of the bespoke facility, with the building presenting a safe therapeutic and home-like environment, while at the same time giving researchers the tools that they need to conduct ground-breaking research. These two distinct zones will give clear connectivity and state of the art design to support recovery.

Plans include large therapy rooms to support the delivery of family skills groups, day program and family-based therapy. The design also includes individual bedrooms with ensuite facilities, kitchens, dining rooms, study, lounges, and family rooms. We have incorporated linking the indoor and outdoor space, with courtyard garden spaces, cottage gardens and quiet spaces for sensory gardens and vegetable allotments.

Set to open by December 2026, the centre will provide five residential beds and a six-place day program in a warm, therapeutic environment.