Alcohol is Australia's most widely used drug — and alcohol use disorder is the country's most common addiction. Yet fewer than 1 in 10 Australians with alcohol dependence ever access formal treatment. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting help.
How Big Is the Problem?
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare:
Despite this, alcohol is deeply embedded in Australian culture, which makes it uniquely hard to recognise and address.
Understanding Alcohol Dependence
There's a spectrum between "drinking too much" and "alcohol dependence." Dependence is characterised by:
If you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, do not attempt to detox alone. Alcohol withdrawal can cause seizures and is potentially life-threatening. Medical supervision is essential.
Alcohol Detox: The First Step
Medical detox is the process of safely managing alcohol withdrawal under clinical supervision. It typically takes 5–10 days and may involve:
Detox alone is not treatment — it addresses physical dependence but doesn't address the psychological and behavioural aspects of addiction. Detox should always be followed by a rehabilitation program.
Types of Alcohol Treatment in Australia
Residential Rehabilitation (Inpatient)
The most intensive form of treatment. You live at the facility for 28–90 days (or longer). Removes you from your drinking environment and gives you intensive therapy. Best for moderate to severe alcohol dependence.
Day Programs
Structured treatment during the day, returning home at night. Suitable for people with strong home support and who can't commit to residential care.
Outpatient Counselling
Regular one-on-one or group therapy sessions. Good for ongoing support after completing a more intensive program.
Telehealth
Remote therapy via video. Increasingly available and useful for those in rural/remote areas or with childcare or work commitments.
What Happens in Alcohol Rehab?
Beyond detox, alcohol rehab addresses the psychological roots of dependence:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps you identify the triggers, thoughts, and situations that drive drinking and develop new strategies to respond.
Motivational Interviewing helps you clarify your own reasons for change and build intrinsic motivation to maintain sobriety.
12-Step Programs (Alcoholics Anonymous model) provide peer support, accountability, and a structured framework for ongoing recovery.
SMART Recovery is a science-based alternative to 12-step that focuses on self-empowerment and evidence-based techniques.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment addresses co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD — which are extremely common in people with alcohol dependence.
Medications That Help
Naltrexone — reduces cravings and the pleasurable effects of alcohol. Can be taken as a daily tablet or monthly injection (Vivitrol).
Acamprosate (Campral) — helps reduce the discomfort of early abstinence and cravings.
Disulfiram (Antabuse) — causes an unpleasant reaction if alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent.
These medications are prescribed by a GP or specialist and are most effective when combined with therapy.
Finding Help in Australia
Free options:
Private options:
Help lines:
Long-Term Recovery
Most people who achieve sustained recovery from alcohol dependence don't do it on their first attempt. Relapse is part of the process for many people — not a failure, but information about what additional support is needed.
Long-term recovery is supported by:
Ready to explore your options? Find alcohol treatment providers near you or speak to our team for a free, confidential conversation about your situation.