COMMON QUESTIONS

ABOUT DESTINY HAVEN

  • Destiny Haven is a residential program for women aged 18 and over. We welcome applications from anywhere in Australia.

  • Yes, we are part of a Christian ministry. Our values shape our daily rhythm, but you don’t need to be Christian to come here. Full participation in the program is expected.

  • The program runs for around 12 months or longer. Every woman’s journey is different — we’ll support you at your own pace.

  • Yes. Every application is assessed individually. The sooner we receive your completed form, the sooner we can begin the process.

COST & PREPARATION

  • Rent is approximately 75% of your Centrelink payment. You’ll also need to pay a one-time $400 non-refundable administration fee and two weeks’ rent in advance.

  • Yes. If you're actively using drugs or alcohol, you must complete a detox program before entry. You’ll need to arrive sober and be transported directly from detox.

  • Pack light — space is limited. You may bring:

    • One large suitcase or striped storage bag

    • One piece of hand luggage

    • One handbag

    • Optional: your own pillow
      Linen and towels are provided. You’ll also need toiletries, work and church clothes, closed-in shoes, a brimmed hat, ID (100 points), and an Opal card.

  • Please let us know about any dietary needs or allergies in your application form. This helps us prepare and support you properly from day one.

  • No, pets are not permitted at Destiny Haven.

  • We can’t accommodate children onsite, but we support mothers in rebuilding strong relationships with their children throughout the program.

DAILY LIFE

  • Yes. Alongside the therapeutic parts of the program — like group sessions, counselling, and self-directed learning — you’ll also take part in daily responsibilities. These include chores, team duties, and work in areas like the kitchen, garden, or The Diamond Collection. It’s all part of building routine, purpose, and practical life skills.

  • Rooms are twin share. When possible, you may be given your own room at first to help you settle.

  • After your first month, shopping trips happen about once a fortnight. These are initially supervised and approved at management’s discretion.

TECHNOLOGY & PERSONAL ITEMS

  • Once a resident reaches Stage Three, they are provided with a program-issued phone (often referred to as a "burner phone").

    This phone is restricted and can only contact up to four pre-approved numbers selected by the resident in consultation with staff. These contacts are typically key support people such as family members or mentors. Phone use is limited to between 5:00pm and 8:00pm daily.

  • Yes. You may bring an MP3 or CD player — as long as it has no Wi-Fi or camera (no smartphones or iPod Touches).
    All music will be checked, and any inappropriate content will be deleted. If you’re not comfortable with this, please don’t bring the device.

  • No. These devices are not allowed.

  • Yes — on DVD only (no USBs). All movies will be checked. If a DVD is checked and found to be unsuitable, we’ll ask the resident to remove it from the property. They can either send it home with a visitor or post it to family or friends.

    We’re not able to store unapproved DVDs on-site.

  • If needed, yes — but access is limited and must be approved by staff. To protect everyone’s privacy, cameras can only be used during special occasions under supervision.

MEDICAL & WELLBEING

  • Yes, with some exceptions. Benzodiazepines, codeine-based medications, and any addictive substances are not permitted.

  • No, Destiny Haven is a smoke-free facility. Nicotine patches are allowed during the induction phase, but no vapes, gum, or other replacements are permitted.

COMMUNICATION & VISITORS

  • Week 1: No calls


    Weeks 2–4:

    • 1 call per week (2 for mothers of children under 12)

    After Week 4

    • 1 call per day (max 15 mins)

    • Calls can be made or received between 5–8pm on weekdays and 2–8:15pm on weekends (exact times vary)

  • Yes. After your first calendar month, approved visitors are welcome on Saturdays between 2–7pm.
    Visitors must be approved by Thursday night. Unapproved visitors will be turned away. Up to four visitors per client are allowed. Visitors can stay for the Saturday night BBQ — bring your own meat, we provide the rest.

  • Yes, but all items must be inspected by staff on arrival. Visitors must also hand in car keys and phones to the office for the duration of the visit.

  • Yes.

    • Email: diamonds@destinyhaven.org.au (for encouragement only; staff read all emails, and clients cannot reply)

    • Mail: PO Box 106, Clarence Town, NSW 2321