About Al-Anon and Alateen participation
Al-Anon Family Groups (including Alateen for teenaged family members) is a fellowship offering comfort and support for the family members and friends of problem drinkers. Al-Anon members practise a program of recovery based upon the Twelve Steps adapted from those of Alcoholics Anonymous. Anyone who has been affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend an Al-Anon Family Group meeting. Al-Anon offers hope and an opportunity for recovery through members sharing their experience, strength and hope with each other. Meetings are held face-to-face and online. There are separate Alateen meetings for teenagers affected by another person's alcoholism.
Al-Anon and Alateen literature, written by Al-Anon and Alateen members, sharing common experiences of how close association with an alcoholic affects family members and friends of alcoholics, aids members in their recovery journey.
Al-Anon is a spiritually-based program, is not religious, celebrates diversity, and welcomes people of all religions, or none.
Each year Al-Anon is invited to participate in the annual AA National Convention. Al-Anon and Alateen have a separate program of meetings and workshops, covering a wide range of topics for both existing members and newcomers.
Our literature is for sale and information packs for new members and interested professionals, such as medical professionals, social workers or drug and alcohol counsellors, are available free of charge.
We hope you will join us for this exciting event. For more information, or to access a full list of Al-Anon and Alateen meetings Australia-wide, visit our website: al-anon.org.au
Al-Anon FAQ
What is Al-Anon?
Al-Anon Family Groups is a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope to solve their common problems. It is not allied with any religion, sect, political entity, or organization. Its sole purpose is to help families and friends of alcoholics.
Who can attend Al-Anon meetings?
Anyone who has been affected by someone else’s drinking—whether that person is a parent, child, spouse, sibling, friend, or coworker—is welcome.
What is Alateen?
Alateen is a part of Al-Anon designed for young people (typically ages 13–18) affected by someone’s drinking. It provides a safe space for teens to share their experiences and to find useful strategies to cope with their lives.
Is Al-Anon the same as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)?
No. While Al-Anon was founded by families of AA members and shares similar principles, it is a separate fellowship with its own program and focus—helping those affected by someone else’s drinking.
What happens at an Al-Anon meeting?
Meetings typically involve members sharing their experiences and listening to others in a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. There’s no cross-talk, advice-giving, or criticism—just mutual understanding.
How do I find a meeting near me or online?
You can find local face-to-face and online meetings via the official website: https://al-anon.org.au/meetings/
Do I have to speak at meetings?
No. Participation is voluntary. You can just listen until you feel comfortable sharing.
Are there online or phone Al-Anon meetings?
Yes. Al-Anon offers online, telephone, and hybrid meetings—ideal for those unable to attend in person.
Does it cost anything to attend Al-Anon?
There are no dues or fees for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through voluntary contributions from members.
Do I need to register or sign anything?
No. Meetings are anonymous and confidential. You don’t need to give your full name or any personal information.
What are the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions in Al-Anon?
The Al-Anon program is based on the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions of Alcoholics Anonymous adapted for use by families and friends of alcoholics. These principles provide a framework for personal recovery and group unity.
Does Al-Anon require a belief in God?
No. Al-Anon is a spiritual program, not a religious one. Members are free to interpret “a Power greater than ourselves” in any way that works for them.
What kind of help can I expect from Al-Anon?
Al-Anon helps you:
Detach from someone else’s drinking with love
Focus on your own well-being
Learn healthier coping skills
Find peace whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not
Can professionals refer clients to Al-Anon?
Yes. Many counsellors, doctors, and social workers recommend Al-Anon as a community resource for families impacted by alcoholism.
Are Al-Anon meetings confidential?
Absolutely. Members respect anonymity and confidentiality—what’s said in meetings stays in meetings. This is one of the core Traditions of the fellowship.