Helplines, telephone and online counselling services for children, young people and adults
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If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call Police on 000.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, and you are unsure which service to contact, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Both are available from anywhere in Australia 24 hours a day (toll free) and provide generalist crisis counselling, information and referral services.
If you need to report an incident of child abuse or neglect, refer to the CFCA resource Reporting Abuse and Neglect: Information for Service Providers.
Overview
This resource sheet is designed to provide practitioners and service providers with the contact details and links to helplines, telephone and online counselling services for children, young people and adults. It includes services related to topics such as family and domestic violence, gambling, mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and drug use, legal services and parenting. It also includes services specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people living or working in rural areas. Services are grouped according to the location in which they operate.
If you wish to make a suggestion for the addition of a helpline, telephone or online counselling service, or if you find the information provided is no longer correct, please email [email protected].
Australia-wide
Australia-wide
Information regarding call costs
1800 numbers: Calls to 1800 numbers are free if you call from a landline telephone. These calls are also free for Telstra mobile customers. Please check with your mobile phone provider for further information regarding call costs.
13/1300 numbers: Calls to 13 or 1300 numbers are charged at local call rates when calling from a landline telephone. Higher rates apply when calling from a mobile phone. Please check with your mobile phone provider for further information regarding call costs.
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1800 RESPECT | A national counselling, information and referral service for anyone who has experiences of, or is at risk of physical or sexual violence. This service is designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities, Indigenous Australians, young people and individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Online counselling is also available. | Yes | 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) 1800 RESPECT |
| Alcohol and Drug Foundation | A telephone and online service for anyone who needs relevant, up-to-date information about alcohol and other drugs. | Yes | 1300 858 584 Alcohol and Drug Foundation |
| Australian Breastfeeding Association | Provides breastfeeding information and support to mothers, their support networks (e.g. other family members) and health professionals. Webchat is also available. | Yes | 1800 686 268 Breastfeeding Helpline
|
| Beyond Blue | Provides information and confidential telephone and online counselling for people who may be experiencing anxiety, depression or suicidal ideation. Services are also available for young people. | Yes | 1300 224 636 Beyond Blue Counselling |
| Blue Knot Helpline and Redress Support Service | Blue Knot Foundation provides support and a referral service for adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse, carers of adult survivors and professionals who work with them. Webchat is also available. Bilingual counsellors are available for the following languages: Armenian, French and German | No | 1300 657 380 Mon to Sun: 9am to 5pm (AEST) Blue Knot Helpline - Redress Support Services |
| Blue Knot National Counselling and Referral Service – Disability | Blue Knot National Counselling and Referral Service provides support, information and referrals for people with disability who have experiences of abuse, violence, neglect and exploitation, as well as their carers, supporters and advocates. Webchat is also available. Bilingual counsellors are available for the following languages: Turkish, Hebrew, Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi. | No | 1800 421 468 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 6 pm (AEST) Blue Knot Helpline - Disability Services |
| Bravehearts Information and Support Line | Open to anyone wanting information, advice, referrals and support regarding child sexual abuse. | No | 1800 272 831 Mon to Fri: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm (AEST) (hours vary on public holidays) Bravehearts Information and Support Line |
| Brother to Brother Crisis Line (Dardi Munwurro) | Provides phone support for Aboriginal men who need someone to talk to about relationship issues, family violence, parenting, drug and alcohol issues or who are struggling to cope for other reasons. The line is staffed by Aboriginal men, including Elders, who have lived experience in the issues that the line offers support for. | Yes | 1800 435 799 Brother To Brother - Dardi Munwurro |
| Bush Support Line (CRANA) | Provides a confidential platform for the health workforce, including nurses, midwives, aged care workers, health students, doctors, and allied health professionals, and their families who live or work in remote areas. Callers can discuss difficulties, seek advice and develop coping strategies with an experienced psychologist. | Yes | 1800 805 391 Bush Support Line |
| Butterfly National Helpline | A free and confidential service, run by qualified health professionals, for anyone in Australia concerned about eating disorders or body image issues. This helpline is for individuals who need support for themselves or someone they care about. Online chat is also available. | No | 1800 33 4673 Mon to Sun: 8 am to 12 am (AEST) Helpline - Butterfly Foundation |
| Child Support enquiry lines (Services Australia) | A helpline for anyone who has questions about child support or who needs to report a change in circumstances. Interpreters are available. | No | 131 272 Mon to Fri: 8:30 am to 4:45 pm Phone us - Accessing our services - Services Australia |
| Counselling Online | A free online and SMS/text-based service for Australian residents concerned about or affected by alcohol and other drugs. Online peer support forums also available. | Yes | Counselling Online See the website to sign-up for SMS support. |
| Defence Member and Family Helpline | Support for Australian Defence Force members and their families, staffed by qualified human service professionals including social workers and psychologists. Members and families who are living overseas can contact the helpline free of charge (see country-specific numbers on webpage). | Yes | 1800 624 608 Defence Member and Family Helpline |
| eheadspace | A free and confidential telephone and online service for young people aged 12 to 25. Qualified youth mental health professionals provide support to young people worried about their mental health or experiencing issues such as depression, bullying and isolation. Support is also available to concerned parents or carers. | No | 1800 650 890 Mon to Sun: 12 pm to 8 pm (AEST) Chat online: 9 am – 1 am (AEST) eheadspace |
| Elder Abuse helpline (Compass) | A free service for anyone wanting information or advice on elder abuse. This number will redirect callers to a phone service in their state and operating times vary. | No | 1800 353 374 Contact Us - Compass |
| Family Drug Support Australia | A telephone support service for users, families and carers affected by alcohol and other drug issues. | Yes | 1300 368 186 Family Drug Support Australia |
| Family Relationship Advice Line | Provides information on family relationship issues and advice on parenting arrangements after separation. It is for anyone – including step-parents, young people and friends – affected by family relationship or separation issues. Referrals to local services are also offered. | No | 1800 050 321
|
| ForWhen | A free national service that provides support to new and expectant parents with perinatal mental health concerns, connecting them to local support services and resources that best match their needs. | No | 1300 24 23 22 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4:30 pm |
| Forced Adoption Support Service | Provides specialist support services for people affected by past forced adoption policies and practices. | No | 1800 210 313 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Forced Adoption Support Services |
| Gambling Help | Anonymous support for people with gambling problems, family and friends close to them, and those just wanting to cut back or regain control. Online chat counselling is also available. | Yes | 1800 858 858 Gambling Help Online |
| Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Adviser line (Services Australia) | Support for formal and informal carers who provide ongoing care for children. | No | 1800 245 965 Mon to Fri: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Advisers - Services Australia |
| GriefLine | Provides support to people experiencing loss and grief, at any stage in life. Moderated online forums are also available. | No | 1300 845 745 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 8 pm (AEST) GriefLine |
| Kids Helpline | Provides confidential telephone and online counselling services to young people aged 5 to 25 years old for any reason. WebChat counselling is available. | Yes | 1800 551 800 Kids Helpline Webchat counselling: kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling |
| Lifeline | A generalist and crisis telephone counselling, information and referral service provided by trained volunteers who are supported by professional staff. Online chat and text services are also available. | Yes | 13 11 14 0477 13 11 14 (sms service) Online chat service Lifeline |
| MensLine Australia | A telephone and online counselling service for men with family and relationship concerns (e.g. parenting issues, family violence, emotional wellbeing). MensLine is staffed by professional counsellors who are experienced in men’s issues. Online and video chat is also available. | Yes | 1300 789 978 Online chat and video counselling MensLine Australia |
| Men's Referral Service | Offers a confidential telephone service as well as online chat. For men who have or are still behaving abusively, family members who are impacted, and friends, family or colleagues who want to understand how to support others. Translators and WebChat are available. | Yes* | 1300 766 491
No to Violence – Men's Referral Service *Service is available 24 hours in Tasmania and New South Wales. |
| Mind Australia Carer Helpline | Provides free, confidential information, support and referral for family, carers and friends of people with a mental illness. | No | 1300 554 660 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (AEST) Mind Australia |
| Miracle Babies Foundation NurtureLine | A free family support helpline for families with a threatened pregnancy, a premature baby in a neonatal intensive care unit or special care nursery, or those transitioning to home and onwards. Support is provided by trained family support volunteers. | Yes | 1300 622 243 Miracle Babies Foundation |
| My Aged Care | Provides information and assistance on how to access aged care services for individuals, family members, friends or an elderly person requiring care. | No | 1800 200 422
Excluding public holidays |
| National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline | Provides confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs to individuals, family and friends, general practitioners, health professionals, and business and community groups. The hotline will automatically redirect you to the Alcohol and Other Drug Information Service operating in your state or territory. | Yes | 1800 250 015 National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline |
| National Debt Helpline | Offers free advice on how to manage debt by a financial counsellor. Live online chat is also available. | 1800 007 007 Mon to Fri: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Live chat available Mon to Fri: 9 am to 8 pm National Debt Helpline | |
| National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) | Provides National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) information to people with disability, service providers, businesses and members of the community. Webchat is also available. | No | 1800 800 110 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 8 pm (AEST) Webchat service Mon to Fri: 8 am to 8 pm (AEST) National Disability Insurance Agency |
| Open Arms - Veterans and Families Counselling | Counselling for anyone who has served at least one day in the Australian Defence Force, their partners and families. This service is usually for the short-term treatment of a specific problem. | Yes | 1800 011 046 Counselling - Open Arms |
| PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) | Provides confidential counselling, support, information and referrals to local services for anyone affected by perinatal (during pregnancy and after birth) anxiety and depression. The service also provides secondary consultations for health professionals. Interpreters are available. | No | 1300 726 306 Mon to Sat: 9 am – 7:30 pm (AEST) PANDA National Helpline |
| Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline | Offers free and confidential support and information about pregnancy, infancy and children up to 5 years of age. Video call is also available. | No | 1800 882 436 Mon to Sun: 7 am to 12 am (AEST) Video call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline |
| QLife | Provides anonymous peer support and referral services for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and/or intersex (LGBTI). Telephone and webchat support are available. | No | 1800 184 527 Mon to Sun: 3 pm to 12 am (AEST) QLife |
| Quitline | Provides support, information and resources on quitting smoking. Quitline can help people prepare quit plans and develop strategies to overcome cravings, triggers and other common quitting challenges. Online chat service is also available. | No | 13 78 48 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 8 pm (AEST) Quitline |
| Red Nose Grief and Loss Support Line | A free bereavement support line for anyone affected by the unexpected death of a baby or child during birth, pregnancy or infancy, regardless of the cause. A trained volunteer parent is available to chat, advocate and assist with support and services. Online chat is also available. | Yes | 1300 308 307 Online chat Mon to Thur: 7 pm to 9 pm (AEST) Red Nose Grief and Loss |
| SANE Australia | Provides information, guidance and referrals to adults who are affected by or need support to manage complex mental health concerns. Online chat and email counselling are also available. | No | 1800 187 263 Mon to Fri: 10 am to 10 pm (AEST) SANE Australia |
| Standby - Support After Suicide | A program dedicated to assisting people and communities who are bereaved or impacted by suicide at any stage in their lives. For individuals, families and friends, witnesses, first responders and service providers. This helpline can connect callers to service providers in their local area. | Yes | 1300 727 247 StandBy - find support |
| Suicide Call Back Service | Provides telephone, video and online counselling to people who are affected by suicide, which can include feeling suicidal, being worried about someone, caring for someone suicidal, being bereaved by suicide and health professionals supporting people affected by suicide. | Yes | 1300 659 467 Online chat and video counselling Suicide Call Back Service |
| Wellways Helpline | A peer-led, volunteer support and referral service that provides information to people experiencing mental health issues, as well as their families and friends. | No | 1300 111 500 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 9 pm (AEST) excluding public holidays Wellways Helpline |
| Youth Law Australia (YLA) | Offers free and confidential legal advice for young people. Online submission form is also available. The Young Worker’s Rights Service is available to young people living in NSW, the ACT or the NT who have questions about their rights at work. | No | 1800 950 570 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (AEST) 1800 953 673 Young Workers’ Rights Service (NSW, ACT, NT only) Youth Law Australia - Get help |
| 13 YARN | Provides a confidential, judgement-free and culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to yarn about their needs, worries or concerns. This service is run by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. | Yes | 13 92 76 13YARN Crisis support |
Australian Capital Territory
Australian Capital Territory
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canberra Rape Crisis Service (CRCC) | Confidential counselling and practical support for women and children who have experienced any form of sexual assault recently or in the past. Telephone workers also offer referrals to other services, support through legal and medical processes and support for family and friends. | No | (02) 6247 2525 Mon to Sun: 7 am to 11 pm Canberra Rape Crisis Service |
| Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS) – Crisis Line | Provides crisis intervention, advocacy, referral, information, support and practical assistance for people subjected to, or using, violence and abuse in relationships. The crisis line gives priority to those subjected to violence. An online chat service is also available. | Yes | (02) 6280 0900 Online chat service Domestic Violence Crisis Service |
| Legal Aid ACT Helpline | Provides free legal information from ACT Legal Aid. If you are seeking help regarding Family Violence Law, please call this number to be transferred to the Family Advocacy and Support Services team. | 1300 654 314 Mon to Thur: 8:30 am to 7 pm Fri: 8:30 am to 5 pm Contact Us - Legal Aid ACT | |
| Parentline ACT | Confidential counselling service for parents and carers. Qualified professionals offer immediate counselling, referrals to other agencies, and ideas and resources about parenting. | No | (02) 6287 3833 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4 pm (excluding public holidays) Parentline ACT |
| Service Assisting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault (SAMSSA) | Provides confidential counselling support, information and referral for men over 16 years of age who have experienced sexual assault or child abuse. SAMSSA is a program of the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre. | No | (02) 6247 2525 Mon to Sun: 7 am to 11 pm Service Assisting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault |
New South Wales
New South Wales
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Violence Legal Advice Line | Free confidential legal information, advice and referrals for women in NSW with a focus on domestic and family violence and Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders. | No | 1800 810 784 or (02) 8745 6999
|
| Domestic Violence Line | Trained female caseworkers provide counselling, information and referrals for people who are experiencing or have experienced domestic and family violence. Staff are aware of the special needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and women from other cultures, as well as those living in rural and remote areas. Interpreters are available. | Yes | 1800 656 463 Domestic Violence Line |
| First Nations Women's Legal Contact Line | Free confidential legal information, advice and referrals for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in NSW with a focus on domestic violence, sexual assault, parenting issues, family law, discrimination and victim's support. | No | 1800 639 784 or (02) 8745 6977 Mon, Tues and Thurs: 10 am to 12.30 pm Indigenous Women's Legal Contact Line |
| Karitane Careline | Provides support, advice and encouragement to parents with children up to 5 years. Child and family health nurses are available to discuss feeding problems, immunisation, toilet training, developmental milestones and more. | No | 1300 CARING (1300 227 464) or (02) 9794 2350
|
| LawAccess NSW (Legal Aid) | Provides free legal advice from Legal Aid NSW. A youth-specific helpline and a helpline for specialist family law services are also available. | No | 1300 888 529 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Help over the phone - Legal Aid NSW |
Youth Helpline: 1800 101 810
| |||
| Family Law Early Intervention Unit: 1800 551 589 Family Law Early Intervention Unit - Legal Aid NSW | |||
| NSW Ageing and Disability Helpline | Provides advice to older people and adults with disability experiencing abuse, neglect or exploitation or those reporting concerns of abuse of an older person or adult with disability. | No | 1800 628 221 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Ageing & Disability Helpline |
| NSW Sexual Violence Helpline (Formerly NSW Rape Crisis) | A helpline for anyone in NSW impacted by sexual assault, recently or in the past (including victim-survivors, friends, families and supporters). | Yes | 1800 424 017 |
| Opioid Treatment Line (OTL) | Provides opiate pharmacotherapy information (including methadone and buprenorphine), referrals and advice. | No | 1800 642 428 Mon to Fri: 9:30 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays) Opioid Treatment Line |
| Parent Line | Trained, professional counsellors with experience in helping families offer advice and information for parents and carers with children aged 0 to 18 years. Support is available for issues such as behavioural and emotional problems, discipline, adolescent issues, family relationships, sole parent issues, school problems, child care and juvenile justice. | No | 1300 130 052
|
| Transcultural Mental Health Line | Provides support for people who are from culturally and linguistically diverse communities. The service includes advice on how to improve wellbeing and mental health, help with accessing mental health services in specific communities and support to care for someone else with a mental health concern. | No | 1800 648 911 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4:30 pm Transcultural Mental Health Line |
| Tresillian Parent's Help Line | Qualified child and family health nurses provide advice on any aspect of parenting of children aged up to 5 years. | No | 1300 272 736 Mon to Sun: 7 am to 11 pm Tresillian Parent's Help Line |
| Victims Access Line | Provides confidential support and information to victims of all crimes, including sexual and physical assault and family violence. Interpreter support is available. | No | 1800 633 063 1800 019 123 (Aboriginal Contact Line) Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays) Victims Access- contact us |
| Women’s Legal Advice Line | Provides free confidential legal information, advice and referrals for women with a focus on family law, child care and protection, victims support and sexual assault. | No | (02) 8745 6988
|
Northern Territory
Northern Territory
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Aid Helpline NT | Provides free legal information from the Northern Territory Legal Aid Commission. If you are seeking help regarding Family Violence Law, please call this number to be transferred to the Family Advocacy and Support Services team. | No | 1800 019 343 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 4:30 pm NT Legal Aid - Helpline |
| Parentline | Provides confidential telephone counselling to support and nurture positive, caring relationships between parents, children, teenagers and significant other people who are important to the wellbeing of families. Webchat is also available. | No | 1300 301 300 Mon to Sun: 8 am to 10 pm (AEST) WebChat Mon to Sun: 8 am to 9 pm Parentline |
| Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) | Provides a counselling service to both adults and children who may have experienced any form of sexual assault (recent or past). Medical and legal support is also available. | Yes* | 24/7 services
Mon to Fri: 8 am to 4:21 pm (ACST)
All other locations call 1800 RESPECT |
| Territory FACES (Family and Children’s Enquiry and Support) | Provides connections for families to support services and resources. This Northern Territory Government helpline is available to anyone experiencing difficulties such as parenting problems, family relationships, money issues and housing. | No | 1800 999 900 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 8 pm (ACST) Territory FACES |
| Women’s Safety Services of Central Australia (WOSSCA) | A specialist domestic and family violence support service that provides counselling, outreach, referral and crisis accommodation for women and children. | Yes | (08) 8952 6075 WOSSCA homepage |
Queensland
Queensland
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcohol and Drug Support (ADIS Queensland) | Provides an anonymous and confidential space for people to talk about their concerns, receive information and explore options and support around their drug and alcohol use. | Yes | 1800 177 833 ADIS Qld Helpline |
| DVConnect Mensline | Provides confidential counselling, information and advice to men affected by domestic and family violence, relationship problems, child support and health issues. | No | 1800 600 636 Mon to Sun: 9 am to 12 am DVConnect Mensline |
| DVConnect Womensline | Offers information, advice and counselling to women affected by domestic and family violence. Also provides referral to women and their children who need crisis accommodation due to domestic and family violence. | Yes | 1800 811 811 Webchat available Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays) DVConnect Womensline |
| Immigrant Women's Support Service (IWSS) | Provides support to women from non-English speaking backgrounds who are affected by domestic and family violence and sexual assault. | No | (07) 3846 3490 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4 pm Immigrant Women's Support Service |
| Legal Aid, Queensland | Provides free legal information from Legal Aid, Queensland. A helpline for specialist family law, child protection and domestic violence services is also available. | No | 1300 651 188 Family law helpline: 1300 267 762 |
| Living Well | Provides counselling to men who have experienced child sexual abuse or have been assaulted as an adult. Services are also available to partners, friends and family. | No | (07) 3028 4648
|
| Parentline | Provides confidential telephone counselling to support and nurture positive, caring relationships between parents, children, teenagers and significant other people who are important to the wellbeing of families. | No | 1300 301 300 Mon to Sun: 8 am to 10 pm Webchat Counselling Mon to Sun: 8 am to 9 pm Parentline |
| Statewide Sexual Assault Helpline | A free confidential service operated by DVConnect. Provides crisis counselling and referrals for people who have experienced sexual assault and abuse. | No | 1800 010 120 Mon to Sun: 7:30 am to 11:30 pm Statewide Sexual Assault Helpline |
South Australia
South Australia
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| After Hours Crisis Care | An after-hours crisis helpline for young people in need of urgent assistance in the areas of domestic and family violence, child protection and personal trauma, who are under the guardianship of the Minister for Child Protection | No | 13 16 11 or (08) 8124 4422 Mon to Fri: 4 pm to 9 am 24 hours on weekends and public holidays After Hours Crisis Care |
| Domestic Violence Crisis Line | Provides counselling, information and support for anyone affected by abuse in their personal relationships. | Yes | 1800 800 098 The Domestic Violence Crisis Line is part of Women’s Safety Services SA. |
| Elm Place (Relationships Australia, SA) | These helplines provide access to, or can answer questions about, the following programs. Post Care Support Services provides case management, counselling, information and advocacy to support young people and adults who have lived in care and/or were placed under the Guardianship of the Chief Executive of the Department for Child Protection in South Australia as a child for more than 6 months. | No | 1800 188 118 (PCSS) Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm |
| Find & Connect offers support to Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants who were in care in Australia between 1920 and 1989, including those who were in foster care, orphanage care and in care at other state or church-based institutions. | 1800 161 109 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm | ||
| The Redress Support Services are available for people who have experienced sexual abuse as children (under the age of 18 years) in institutional contexts before the commencement of the Redress Scheme on 1 July 2018. | 1800 998 187 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm | ||
| Homeless Connect SA | Provides information and referral into homelessness services for anyone experiencing homelessness in South Australia. | Yes | 1800 033 308 |
| Legal Services SA | Provides free legal information from South Australia Legal Aid. A helpline for Family Advocacy and Support Services (FASS) is also available. | 1800 366 424 FASS line: (08) 8111 5300 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4:30 pm Legal Services SA | |
| Mob Strong Debt Help (Financial Rights and Legal Centre) | Provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples information, advice and assistance about tackling credit, debt and insurance matters. | 1800 808 488 Mon to Fri: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Mob Strong Debt Help (financialrights.org.au) | |
| Nunga Mi:Minar Women and Children's Shelter | Provides counselling, referrals, information, support and emergency accommodation for Aboriginal women and children (boys up to 12 years) who are experiencing domestic or family violence. | No | 1800 003 308 or (08) 8367 6474
|
| Parent Helpline | Provides confidential telephone information and support to parents with children aged 0 to 5 years on issues such as health, behaviour, relationships and service referrals. | Yes* | 1300 364 100 *Calls received between 9:15 pm and 7:15 am will be redirected to the healthdirect service. Parent Helpline |
| Regional Access SA | Free telephone counselling for anyone who lives or works outside of the Adelaide metropolitan region who might be feeling the pressures and stresses of everyday life, including mental wellbeing, loneliness, self-esteem, relationship/family issues, stress. | Yes | 1300 032 186 Regional Access SA |
| Sexual Healthline - Shine SA | Calls are answered by a nurse who can answer sexual health related questions, including questions about STIs, pregnancy and pregnancy testing, contraception, sexual and gender diversity and identity, and puberty. | No | 1300 883 793 Country callers, toll-free: 1800 188 171 |
| Yarrow Place | Provides crisis response, professional counselling and information about support groups and the collection of forensic evidence for people aged 16 years or over who have been sexually assaulted in South Australia. | Yes | 1800 817 421 Yarrow Place |
Tasmania
Tasmania
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcohol and Drug Information Service (Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Council Tasmania) | Non-judgemental telephone counselling, information and referral service for anyone seeking help for their own or another person’s alcohol or drug use. Online counselling is also available. | Yes | 1800 811 994 Families and friends 1300 368 186 Online chat counselling Service Directory – ATDC |
| Legal Aid, Tasmania | Free legal information from Tasmanian Legal Aid. A Family Advocacy and Support Service (FASS) line is also available. | No | 1300 366 611 FASS line: 1800 431 157 |
| Laurel House Launceston | Provides therapeutic counselling, support and information for adults and children in the North and North West of Tasmania who have been sexually assaulted. | Yes* | (03) 6334 2740 (North: Launceston) Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (03) 6431 9711 (North West: Burnie & Devonport) Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm After hours number: 1800 697 877 (Tasmania-wide 24/7 service) Laurel House |
| Parent Line | Provides health information and advice to parents from health professionals. | Yes | 1300 808 178 Parent line | Tasmanian Department of Health |
| Rural Alive & Well (RAW) | Provides a ‘non-clinical’, non-intrusive and confidential service to enable proactive steps towards stronger mental health and wellbeing. This program is available for those working within Tasmania's primary industry sectors or living in rural and remote locations, and anyone worried about someone in this sector. | No | 1800 729 827 Mon to Sun: 5 am to 10 pm Rural Alive & Well Tasmania - Home (rawtas.com.au) |
| Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS) – Southern Tasmania | Provides crisis phone support and counselling services to people in Southern Tasmania who have been sexually abused at any time of their lives. Support is also available to family, friends and professionals who are supporting a person who has experienced sexual assault. Counselling and crisis support are available only for those in Southern Tasmania. | Yes | 1800 697 877 Sexual Assault Support Services |
| The Link (Youth Health Services) | Provides safe and confidential support for young people, including practical assistance, information, advocacy and referrals in relation to health and other issues. | No | 03 6231 2927
|
Victoria
Victoria
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1800 My Options | Provides information and referrals for sexual and reproductive health, specifically contraception, unplanned pregnancy, abortion, and sexual health care. | No | 1800 696 784 NRS : 1300 555 727 Interpreter: 13 14 50 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays) 1800 My Options |
| Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria | Provides support, information and referral to people with anxiety disorders, their families and carers, and mental health care providers. | 1300 269 438 or 03 9830 0533 Mon to Fri: 10 am to 8:30 pm ARCV - Helpline | |
| Association for Children with a Disability (ACD) | Provides free support for parents and families of children with any type of disability, to help understand and advocate for their child’s rights and needs. Also available for professionals who work with children and their families. | 03 9880 700 Regional: 1800 654 013 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Association for Children with Disability - Support Line | |
| Carers Victoria Advisory Line | Provides information, support and referrals to caring families in Victoria. | No | 1800 514 845 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (excluding public holidays) Contact Us | Carers Victoria |
| Djirra Aboriginal Family Violence Legal Service | Provides telephone and face-to-face legal and non-legal support to Aboriginal people who are experiencing or have experienced family violence. | No | 1800 105 303 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Djirra |
| DirectLine | Provides free and confidential counselling, information and referral for alcohol and drug-related matters. Online chat service is also available. | Yes | 1800 888 236 DirectLine |
| Family Drug and Gambling Help Line (from the Self Help Addition Resource Centre) | A confidential telephone support service staffed by volunteers with experience of Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) and gambling issues within the family. | Yes | 1300 660 068 Family Drug and Gambling Help |
| Gambler’s Help | Provides support to people with gambling problems, family and friends close to them, and those just wanting to cut back or regain control. Peer support available. | Yes | 1800 858 858 Gambler’s Help 1800 262 376 (Youth service) Under 25s Gambler's Help |
| inTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence | For women and children from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds who are victims/survivors of domestic violence. Interpreter services are available. | No | 1800 755 988 or (03) 9413 6500 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4:30 pm inTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence |
| Legal Help (Victorian Legal Aid) | Free legal advice from Victorian Legal Aid. Online ‘Legal Help Chat’ is also available. | 1300 792 387 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 6 pm Speak to us | Victoria Legal Aid | |
| Maternal and Child Health Line | Available to Victorian families with children from birth to school age. Provides information, support and guidance regarding child health, nutrition, breast-feeding, maternal and family health and parenting. | Yes | 13 22 29 Maternal and Child Health Line |
| Parentline | Provides a telephone, counselling, advisory and information service for parents and carers with children aged up to 18 years. | No | 13 22 89 Mon to Sun: 8 am to 12 am Parentline |
| Rainbow Door | Provides advice, support and referrals to all LGBTIQ+ people in Victoria, their friends, family and peers. SMS support is also available, with texts returned during operating hours. | No | 1800 729 367 0408 017 246 (SMS support) Mon to Sun: 10 am to 5 pm Get Support - Rainbow Door |
| Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre | Provides crisis telephone support, information and referral to safe accommodation (refuge) for women experiencing violence and abuse in their relationships. Web chat service is also available. | Yes* | 1800 015 188 or (03) 9928 9600 Safe Steps Family Violence Response *Web chat available Mon to Fri: 9 am to 12 am (excluding public holidays) |
| Sexual Assault Crisis Line | An after-hours, confidential, telephone crisis counselling and information support service for victim/survivors of both past and recent sexual assault. | Yes | 1800 806 292 Mon to Sun: 5 pm to 9 am During business hours you will be directed to your local Centre Against Sexual Assault. Sexual Assault Crisis Line |
| SuicideLine | For people who are feeling suicidal or who are concerned about another person who may be suicidal. Also for people who are grieving or emotionally affected after a suicide. Online chat and video chat services are also available. | Yes | 1300 651 251 SuicideLine |
| Wire Women’s Support Line | Provides support, information and referrals to women, non-binary and gender diverse people on any issues, such as: family relationships and legal issues; domestic/family violence; housing and homelessness; emotional wellbeing; mental health – anxiety, fear, stress and depression; and job search, study options and community volunteering. | No | 1300 134 130 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm (excludes public holidays and days between Christmas and New Year) Chat service available: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm Wire Women's Support Line |
| YoDAA—Youth Drug and Alcohol Advice Service | Provides information, counselling and referrals for young people, families, youth workers and school staff affected by drug and alcohol use. | Yes | 1800 458 685 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 8 pm YoDAA |
Western Australia
Western Australia
| Helpline/ Counselling service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alcohol and Drug Support service | Provides an information and counselling service including referral and support lines for people seeking help for their own or another person’s alcohol or drug use. Contact with support lines is one-to-one with a professional counsellor and is confidential. | Yes | Alcohol and drug support line |
Parent and family drug support line | |||
| Crisis Care Helpline | Provides response to reported concerns for a child's safety and wellbeing and information and referrals for people experiencing crisis. | Yes | (08) 9223 1111 1800 199 008 (Country areas) Crisis Care WA |
| Here for You | A confidential, non-judgemental service for anyone in WA who is concerned about their own or another person’s alcohol and other drug use and/or mental health. The helpline is serviced by qualified counsellors and professional peer practitioners, who have a lived experience of recovery. | No | 1800 437 348 Mon to Sun: 7 am to 10 pm Here For You AOD and Mental Health Support Line |
| Legal Aid, Western Australia | Free legal information from Legal Aid, WA. A Family Advocacy and Support Service (FASS) line is also available. | No | 1300 650 579 FASS line: 1300 650 579 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4 pm Get help over the phone | Legal Aid WA |
| Men's Domestic Violence Helpline | Offers information, referral and telephone counselling for men who are concerned about their violent and abusive behaviours and male victims of family and domestic violence. . | Yes | 1800 000 599 Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline | Western Australian Government |
| Meth Helpline | A confidential, non-judgemental telephone counselling, information and referral service for anyone seeking support with their own or another person’s meth use. | Yes | 1800 874 878 Meth Helpline |
| Ngala Parenting Line | Offers phone advice and support about parenting issues and concerns to parents and carers of children up to 18 years. This is a free callback service. | No | 1800 111 546 (regional from a landline) (08) 9368 9368 (metro and mobile) Mon to Sun: 8 am to 8 pm Ngala Parenting Line |
| Parent and Family Drug Support Line | A confidential, non-judgemental counselling, information and referral service for people concerned about the alcohol or drug use of a family member or friend. Professional counsellors and parent volunteers with experience of family drug use are available. | Yes | 1800 653 203 (country areas) or (08) 9442 5050 Parent and Family Drug Support Line |
| Samaritans WA | Provides anonymous crisis support for issues such as relationship or family problems, loss and bereavement, financial or job-related worries, illness, addiction and suicide. | No | 135 247 Mon to Sun: 8 am to 8 pm (AWST) Samaritans |
| Sexual Assault Resource Centre (SARC) | An emergency service that offers assistance and support for people of all sexualities and gender identities aged 13 years and over who have experienced any form of unwanted sexual contact or behaviour in the last 2 weeks. A free counselling service is also available to people who have experienced sexual assault or sexual abuse in the past (more than 2 weeks ago). | Yes* | 1800 199 888 or (08) 6458 1828 Mon to Sun: 8:30 am to 11 pm |
| The Patricia Giles Centre for Non-Violence | Crisis and short-term counselling services are available for women and children affected by family violence. Parenting information is also provided. | No | (08) 9300 0340 Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Patricia Giles Centre for Non-Violence |
| Women's Domestic Violence Helpline | Provides support for women experiencing family and domestic violence, including counselling, information, advice, referrals, support with police and safety planning | Yes | 1800 007 339 Women's Domestic Violence Helpline |
Assisted call services
Assisted call services
| Service | Description | 24-hour service? | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aboriginal Interpreter Service (NT) | Telephone interpreter service for people in the Northern Territory, covering almost 100 Indigenous Languages. *Charges incurred for service. | Yes* | 1800 334 944 Mon to Fri: 8 am to 4:20 pm for bookings Availability of interpreters varies based on languages required. The service requests that bookings are made two days in advance (except in emergencies). Book an Aboriginal interpreter | Northern Territory Government *After hours interpreting services are for urgent matters only. |
| National Relay Service | Assistance for making a relay call, for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. | Yes* | NRS Chat Users: National Relay Service (nrscall.gov.au) NRS Captions Users: National Relay Service (nrscall.gov.au) |
| Voice Relay: Standard and overseas calls: 1300 555 727 1800 calls: 1800 555 727 Emergency calls: 1800 555 727 and ask for Triple Zero (000) | |||
| TTY users: Standard calls:133 677 1800 calls: 1800 555 677 Emergency calls: 106 | |||
| SMS Relay Users: 0423 677 767 | |||
| Video Relay Users: Open Skype and contact NRS VIDEO RELAY SERVICE | |||
| Helpdesk: Phone: 1800 555 660 SMS: 0416 001 350 Online: NRS Helpdesk enquiries | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts Contact the NRS Helpdesk | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts *Helpdesk service operates Mon-Fri: 8am - 6pm (AEST). You can leave a message outside of these hours and a Helpdesk staff member will get back to you within four hours of reopening. | |||
| NRS call numbers | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts | |||
| Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) | Immediate telephone interpreting service with an extensive list of languages available. | Yes | 13 14 50 TIS |
If you wish to make a suggestion for the addition of a helpline, telephone or online counselling service, or if you find the information provided is no longer correct, please email [email protected].
Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements
This practice reference guide was updated by Eliza Cotton, Research Officer with the Child Family Community Australia information exchange at the Australian Institute of Family Studies.
Featured image: © GettyImages/urbazon