Admissions

A Respectful, Inclusive Approach

Guthrie House is committed to providing inclusive, non-judgemental, and culturally safe care. We recognise and value the strength, dignity, and lived experience of every woman we support. Our service welcomes women from all walks of life, including:

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women
  • Women from culturally and linguistically diverse communities
  • Same-sex attracted and transgender women
  • Women living with disability

We use respectful, person-centred language and approaches that promote choice, empowerment, and connection. We avoid labels and assumptions, and always centre each woman’s voice, experiences, and goals.

We Welcome Referrals From

  • Women referring themselves
  • Family and friends
  • Correctional centres and Community Corrections
  • Drug Court
  • Health and AOD services
  • Non-government organisations

If someone other than the woman is making the referral, her consent is required before we can engage.

Who We Support

Women are eligible for admission if they:

  • Are aged 18 years or over
  • Identify as a woman (cisgender or transgender)
  • Are currently involved in the criminal legal system
  • Are currently using substances in a way that is impacting their wellbeing
  • Are experiencing or at risk of homelessness

We support women engaged in Opioid Treatment Programs (OTP) and other forms of AOD treatment. We work closely with prescribers and treatment providers to ensure continuity of care and a safe, supported transition into our program.

Priority Access

Priority is given to women who:

  • Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
  • Are pregnant
  • Have children under 12 months in their care
  • Are experiencing domestic and family violence
  • Have been assessed as medium to high risk of returning to custody, especially where systemic disadvantage or limited support is a factor

Criminal Legal System Pathways

Women may be eligible for admission if they are:

  • In custody in NSW and preparing for supervised release
  • In the community and subject to a supervised order, including:
    • Parole
    • Probation
    • Drug Court Program
    • Intensive Corrections Order (ICO)

Referrals from the Community

Women entering from the community must complete a medically supported withdrawal (detox) at a recognised service before starting the program. This ensures a safe and supported beginning to their stay at Guthrie House. We can assist you with the referral process, and once completed, we’ll provide transport to Guthrie House to support your admission.

Who We’re Not Able to Support

At this time, Guthrie House is unable to accept referrals for:

  • People who identify as male
  • Women currently using or prescribed benzodiazepines, unless part of a managed withdrawal plan
  • Women experiencing acute mental health distress that requires hospitalisation, emergency care, or would significantly impact their ability to engage with the program

We do welcome referrals for women living with mental health conditions and will work closely with referring services to understand individual needs, risks, and the supports required.

For further information, you can read or download our Potential Client Information Sheet.