Central Service Office of Alcoholics Anonymous Victoria
Do you think that you may have a problem with alcohol and are you looking for help?
If you want to stop drinking then AA can help you…
What to Expect at Your First Meeting
Walking into your first AA meeting can feel intimidating. Here's what you can expect to help ease any concerns.
Welcoming Community
You'll find a supportive group of people who understand what you're going through. Everyone was new once.
No Pressure to Share
You're never required to speak. You can simply listen and observe until you feel comfortable.
Completely Free
AA meetings are free. There are no fees, dues, or requirements. A small collection may be passed for expenses.
Confidentiality & Anonymity
What's shared in meetings stays in meetings. You can use just your first name if you prefer.
Structured Format
Meetings follow a familiar format with readings, sharing, and discussion about recovery experiences.
No Judgment
Everyone is at different stages of their journey. You'll find acceptance regardless of where you are.
Types of Meetings
Different meeting formats serve different needs. Here are the main types you'll encounter:
Open Meetings
Anyone can attend - family, friends, and those interested in learning about AA.
Closed Meetings
For those who have a desire to stop drinking or think they might have a drinking problem.
Speaker Meetings
One person shares their story of recovery for most of the meeting.
Discussion Meetings
Multiple people share on a chosen topic related to recovery.
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Remember, everyone at the meeting wants to see you succeed. The hardest part is walking through the door - everything gets easier from there.
Am I an Alcoholic?
Only you can decide whether you think AA might help you. Here are some questions that might help you determine if you have a drinking problem.
Ask yourself these questions honestly:
Have you ever decided to stop drinking for a week or so, but only lasted for a couple of days?
Do you wish people would mind their own business about your drinking?
Have you ever switched from one kind of drink to another in the hope that this would keep you from getting drunk?
Have you had a drink in the morning during the past year?
Do you envy people who can drink without getting into trouble?
Have you had problems connected with drinking during the past year?
Has your drinking caused trouble at home?
Do you ever try to get "extra" drinks at a party because you do not get enough?
Do you tell yourself you can stop drinking any time you want to, even though you keep getting drunk when you don't mean to?
Have you missed days of work because of drinking?
Do you have "blackouts"?
Have you ever felt that your life would be better if you did not drink?
Remember
Only you can decide if you have a drinking problem. If you answered "yes" to several of these questions, you might want to consider attending an AA meeting. Many people find that sharing their experiences with others who understand can be incredibly helpful.
Meeting Types in Victoria
Understanding our meeting formats and how to participate
There are 2 main types of meetings in Victoria: in-person and online. Check the meeting information and contact the group directly if you have questions.
In-Person Meetings
Face-to-face meetings held in community centers and church halls. They vary in size and format. A chairperson facilitates the meeting and calls on people to speak. You're never required to share - you can listen and observe. When members do speak, they share about their drinking experience, their decision to join AA, and their recovery journey. This is called "sharing your story."
Online Meetings
Virtual meetings conducted through Zoom software. These allow members to participate from any location while maintaining group connection. You can join with or without video - your choice. Same format as in-person meetings with chairperson-led discussions and voluntary sharing.
Online Meeting Security
Online meetings are public gatherings, similar to physical AA meetings. Share only general experiences - save personal details for private conversations with sponsors or trusted friends. Most meetings use security measures, but we recommend using a meeting-specific name rather than your full name to maintain anonymity.
Take Action Today
Get immediate help and support. Connect with AA Victoria's network of meetings, members, and resources.
Find Meeting Now
Locate in-person and online meetings by location
Call for Support
Speak with experienced AA members today
Join Online Meeting
Access virtual meetings from anywhere
Get AA Literature
Big Book, daily reflections, and recovery materials
Your Action Plan for Today
Recovery starts with simple actions. Here's what you can do right now.
One Day at a Time
Focus on today only. Don't think about tomorrow or next week.
Connect with Others
Attend a meeting or call someone in recovery.
Listen and Learn
No pressure to speak. Just show up and listen.
Quick Meeting Search
Find AA meetings by location, time, or format across Victoria.
New to AA?
Essential information and resources for newcomers to Alcoholics Anonymous.
The Only Requirement
You've already taken the hardest step by being here. Thousands of people across Victoria have found recovery through AA.
"The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking."
— AA Tradition Three
Community Events
Connect with our AA Victoria community through special events and gatherings
Essential Resources
Everything you need to start or continue your recovery journey through AA Victoria.
Find Meetings
Search by location, time, or meeting type across Victoria
Search Meetings Today's MeetingsSupporting AA
Your donations help maintain our services, support meetings, and provide resources to those seeking recovery.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're looking for your first meeting or want to deepen your AA journey, we're here to help.
