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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:

1

Have you ever decided to stop drinking for a week or so, but only lasted for a couple of days?

2

Do you wish people would mind their own business about your drinking?

3

Have you ever switched from one kind of drink to another in the hope that this would keep you from getting drunk?

4

Have you had a drink in the morning during the past year?

5

Do you envy people who can drink without getting into trouble?

6

Have you had problems connected with drinking during the past year?

7

Has your drinking caused trouble at home?

8

Do you ever try to get "extra" drinks at a party because you do not get enough?

9

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?

10

Have you missed days of work because of drinking?

11

Do you have "blackouts"?

12

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.

Your Action Plan for Today

Recovery starts with simple actions. Here's what you can do right now.

1

One Day at a Time

Focus on today only. Don't think about tomorrow or next week.

2

Connect with Others

Attend a meeting or call someone in recovery.

3

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

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Essential Resources

Everything you need to start or continue your recovery journey through AA Victoria.

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