New residential centre in Charlestown to provide critical support for eating disorder recovery

newy.com.au – A major step forward in the treatment of eating disorders has arrived in the Hunter region, with the official opening of Baiyangbaiyaang – a first-of-its-kind residential facility in Charlestown, Newcastle. Opened on Friday, 4 April 2025, the $13.5 million centre is the first publicly funded residential eating disorder service in New South Wales.

Meaning “Butterfly – the one who flutters” in a local Aboriginal language, Baiyangbaiyaang offers a unique and supportive environment for people aged 16 and over who are living with a diagnosed eating disorder. Designed to feel like a home rather than a hospital, the 12-bed, two-storey facility provides evidence-based care to support long-term recovery.

Residents can stay for up to three months, receiving tailored treatment from a specialist team that includes psychiatrists, psychologists, dietitians, nurses, occupational therapists, exercise physiologists and social workers. The program focuses not only on therapy, but also on daily life skills and wellness activities such as cooking, grocery shopping, and gentle physical movement.

The facility fills a vital gap between outpatient care and hospital admission, offering an option for people who are ready to actively participate in their recovery. It is expected to begin accepting residents in the coming weeks, with referrals managed online by a person’s treating health practitioner.

The centre is part of a broader $63 million national initiative funded by the Commonwealth to establish seven similar services across Australia. Patients travelling long distances to Charlestown may be eligible for assistance through the IPTAAS scheme, which covers travel and accommodation for medical treatment.

NSW Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said the opening of Baiyangbaiyaang marks a significant advancement in publicly funded support for people living with eating disorders, calling it a “massive step forward” for the state.

Charlestown MP Jodie Harrison described the centre as an essential new service for the region, while fellow Labor MP Emily Suvaal praised the initiative for creating a safe and welcoming space that can have a lasting impact on individuals and families.

Dr Anand Swamy, Director of Mental Health Services at Hunter New England Health, added that the service complements existing treatment options across the state, including day programs and community therapies.

Dr Jim Hungerford, CEO of the Butterfly Foundation, welcomed the launch, noting that many people in NSW have faced barriers to accessing specialised support. The foundation will continue collaborating with the centre to ensure best practices in care delivery.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder or body image concerns, support is available via the Butterfly Foundation National Helpline at 1800 33 4673 or by visiting their website.