FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Does AA Work? Alcoholics Anonymous Goes Bush
2 July 2025 – Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Australia is reaching out across Australia with a series of eight professional awareness luncheons across regional centres in every state and territory. Events so far have been held in Albany (WA), Whyalla (SA), Darwin (NT), Kingaroy (QLD), Dubbo (NSW), Tatura (VIC), and Campbelltown (TAS).
Organised by AA’s Remote Communities Committee, these luncheons have connected with 108 local professionals from health, emergency, and community sectors thus far. The events have included lived-experience presentations by sober AA members, a screening of the Stanford University video “Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?” based on a highly respected Cochrane Report, and small-group discussions tailored to regional needs.
The initiative is aiming to present AA as a proven, no-cost support referral option for health professionals, and is part of a broader outreach campaign marking 80 years of AA in Australia under the theme: “Building Bridges – Strengthening Recovery Through Regional Collaboration.”
For more information or to connect with a local AA Public Information contact, visit www.aa.org.au call office on 02 9599 8866 or helpline on 1300 22 22 22
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Alcoholics Anonymous Reaching out across Australia
AA Hosts National Regional Outreach with Professional Luncheons in Every State and Territory
On Wednesday 25 June, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Australia held eight professional awareness luncheons in regional centers across the country: Albany (WA), Whyalla (SA), Darwin (NT), Kingaroy (QLD), Dubbo (NSW), Tatura (VIC), Campbelltown (TAS). Each event bringing together professionals on the frontline of community health and emergency response.
Organised by AA's Remote Communities Committee, these luncheons have connected with 108 local stakeholders — including first responders, healthcare providers, crisis workers, and staff from NGOs and community support organisations. The format was designed to foster connection and knowledge-sharing in a practical, locally relevant way.
The theme: "Building Bridges – Strengthening Recovery Through Regional Collaboration."
Each event featured:
- Short presentations from sober AA members with lived experience
- Screening of the Stanford University video summarising the Cochrane Report: *Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?*
- Group and table discussions tailored to local services and referral needs
AA members engaged directly with attendees, addressing questions and helping professionals explore how AA can complement existing support networks. The key objective: to present AA as a freely available, evidence-supported resource that can enhance client outcomes.
Alcoholism: A Persistent Public Health Issue
More than 1 in 20 Australians lives with alcohol use disorder. Alcohol-related harm continues to place strain on hospitals, emergency services, and mental health systems across the country, particularly in regional areas where resources are limited.
The Cochrane Report, a leading independent medical review, concluded that Alcoholics Anonymous and 12-step facilitation (TSF) programs are more effective than other established treatments for achieving sustained abstinence.
AA’s availability — with no cost, 24/7 support, online meetings, and phone lines — makes it a uniquely accessible option.
An Ongoing Conversation
Reactions to the events were overwhelmingly positive. Participants expressed appreciation for the honest dialogue and practical relevance, particularly the opportunity to ask questions of AA members with lived experience.
These luncheons are part of a broader initiative tied to the 80th anniversary of Alcoholics Anonymous in Australia. The Remote Communities Committee plans to continue this outreach series, further strengthening regional partnerships and providing valuable information to those who work with individuals affected by alcoholism.
AA is not affiliated with any outside organisation and does not offer clinical or professional services. It offers peer-led support, lived experience, and a path to sustained recovery.
To learn more or to connect with a local AA Public Information representative, visit: www.aa.org.au or call 1300 22 22 22
Contact details:
Neil Schafer
Ph: 0403 227 667
