Useful Links
Useful links
Lifeline – Call 13 11 14 for this free, 24-hour Australia-wide crisis support and suicide prevention service. Lifeline provides all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to online, phone, and face-to-face crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Suicide Call Back – call 1300 659 467 for this free service for people having suicidal thoughts, family or friends affected by suicide, and healthcare professionals treating suicidal people.
SuicideLine – call 1300 651 251 for free and anonymous support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week across Victoria.
Suicide Prevention Australia – Suicide Prevention Australia is the national peak body for the suicide prevention sector.
Contact Details & Locations
In the event that you require assistance to escape Domestic and Family Violence, including the need for accommodation and support, it is advisable to reach out to one of the following services within your respective state.
National: 1800 Respect – 1800 737 732
NSW: DV Line – 1800 656 463
NT: 1800 Respect – 1800 737 732
QLD: DV Connect – 1800 811 811
SA: DV Crisis Line – 1800 800 098
TAS: 1800 Respect – 1800 737 732
VIC: Safe Steps – 1800 015 188
WA: DV Helpline – 1800 007 339
Call 000 if it is an emergency.
MoneyMinded is a financial education program which helps people make informed decisions about the use and management of their money.
Youth beyondblue is an organisation devoted to increasing community awareness and understanding of depression, anxiety and related disorders amongst young people.
The ReachOut.com site provides young people with the information, help, support, advice and connections they need to manage mental health difficulties.
This site provides resources to help parents support their teenagers through everyday issues and tough times.
Australia’s National Youth Mental Health Foundation.
Anxiety Treatment Australia provides information about anxiety disorders and the treatment options available.
Shyness and Social Anxiety Assistance
Shyness & Social Anxiety Treatment Australia offers valuable insights into social anxiety disorder, treatment choices, and the network of psychologists across the country.
ARCVic is a state-wide, specialist mental health organisation, providing support, recovery and educational services to people and families living with anxiety disorders.
The National Mental Health Charity, providing fact sheets and information about mental health topics.
Mental Health Association of NSW
Mental Health Association of NSW http://www.mentalhealth.asn.au Offers information and education advice about protecting mental health, mutual support and advocacy services.
National Mental Health Commission
The Commission plays a key role in the Government’s commitment to long-term reforms in mental health.
Mental Health Council Australia
An independent, national representative network of organisations and individuals committed to achieving quality mental health in Australia.
Australian Centre for Post-Traumatic Mental Health
Trauma related research, training and policy development, helping organisations and health professionals who work with people affected by traumatic events.
MindSpot provides essential knowledge about the impact of anxiety, depression, and chronic pain on emotional well-being.
Sometimes, it’s beneficial to speak with a professional about your feelings.
Sexual Assault Specialist Service
1800Respect is a nationwide specialist service offering information, referrals to other services, and online or phone counseling.
Seeking medical care is a personal decision, but it is often advisable. You can receive medical care from general practitioners (GPs), hospital emergency departments, or specialized community health centers. Importantly, visiting a doctor does not always entail involving the police or facing the perpetrator in court.
Contact 1800Respect at 1800 737 732 to locate the nearest specialized medical care provider.
Call 1800Respect on 1800 737 732 to find your nearest specialised medical care provider.
An Interactive Guide to Staying Safe on The Internet
Mental Health in Multicultural Australia
The MHiMA project is funded by the Australian Government, Department of Health & Ageing to provide a national focus for advice and support to providers and governments on mental health and suicide prevention for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.
DrugInfo is a program of the Australian Drug Foundation. We provide easy access to information about alcohol and other drugs.
National Drug & Alcohol Research Centre
The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales is supported by funding from the Australian Government under the Substance Misuse Prevention and Service Improvements Grants Fund.
Family Drug Help (FDH) is a specialized service tailored to cater to the support and information requirements of parents, as well as other family members and significant individuals, who are impacted by the problematic alcohol or drug use of a loved one. This service is structured to provide guidance and assistance to those dealing with the challenges and consequences associated with substance misuse within their family or social circles.
The American Lung Association’s mission is to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through Education, Advocacy, and Research.
Helping people quit smoking through a combination of quality information and strong community support.
Kids Helpline is Australia’s private and confidential, telephone and online counselling service specifically for young people aged between 5 and 25.
The Australian parenting website: comprehensive, practical, expert child health and parenting information and activities covering children aged 0-15 years.
Children of Parents with a Mental Illness (COPMI)
COPMI promotes better mental health outcomes for children of parents with a mental illness.
Australian organisation provides information about depression and anxiety to consumers, carers and health professionals.
The Black Dog Institute is a world leader in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Information about depression compiled by the Australian National University’s Centre for Mental Health Research.
Anxiety Online / Mental Health Online
Anxiety Online / Mental Health Online is a comprehensive online mental health service offering information, assessment, online diagnosis and treatment programs (“eTherapy”) for the anxiety disorders.
A free self-help program to teach cognitive behaviour therapy skills to people vulnerable to depression and anxiety.
myCompass is an interactive self-help service that aims to promote resilience and wellbeing for all Australians. It is a guide to good mental health – it points you in the right direction.
Stay updated with the most recent health news from Australia and across the globe. Additionally, access valuable tips and information to enhance your overall health and well-being.
Your source for unbiased information on diseases, fitness, aging, and health services. It also features a newsletter and an events calendar. This resource is proudly sponsored by the Australian Government.
A comprehensive platform for health and medical information tailored for consumers. Explore topics such as healthy living, weight management, recipes, physical activity, pregnancy, nutrition, children’s health, and more.
With untreated mental health conditions resulting in over 6 million lost working days and 12 million days of reduced productivity every year in Australia RMs – EAP can provide professional support to help workers experiencing mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, to stay at or return to work, benefiting both the worker and the business.
Australia-wide mental health, crisis, neurodivergence and community support directory
Finding the right support can be difficult, particularly during periods of distress. This directory groups services by need so individuals, families, carers and professionals can locate relevant support more quickly. Services are external to Receptive Minds and eligibility, hours and availability can change.
EMERGENCY: If you or another person is in immediate danger, has seriously harmed themselves, or is at immediate risk of suicide or serious harm, call Triple Zero (000) or attend the nearest hospital emergency department.
1. Emergency, Suicide & Crisis Support
Triple Zero (000)
Phone: 000
For immediate danger, serious injury, life-threatening emergencies, or immediate risk of serious harm.
Lifeline Australia
Phone: 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention for people experiencing emotional distress or personal crisis.
Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Suicide Call Back Service
Phone: 1300 659 467
National telephone and online counselling for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, people worried about someone, and people affected by suicide.
Website: https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/
SuicideLine Victoria
Phone: 1300 651 251
Free and confidential suicide-prevention and mental health support for people in Victoria.
Website: https://suicideline.org.au/
2. CAT / CATT, Acute Mental Health & State Crisis Access
People experiencing an acute or severe mental health crisis may need specialist public mental health assessment rather than a general counselling helpline. Depending on location, teams may be called CAT/CATT, Acute Community Intervention Service (ACIS), Acute Care Team (ACT), Psychiatric Emergency Team (PET), Mental Health Triage or Crisis Assessment services.
| State / Territory | Service name | Main access number |
|---|---|---|
| VIC | Local public mental health triage / CAT-CATT / ACIS | Local catchment number varies |
| NSW | NSW Mental Health Line | 1800 011 511 |
| QLD | 1300 MH CALL | 1300 642 255 |
| SA | Mental Health Triage Service | 13 14 65 |
| WA – Metro | Mental Health Emergency Response Line | 1300 555 788 |
| WA – Peel | Mental Health Emergency Response Line | 1800 676 822 |
| WA – Rural | RuralLink | 1800 552 002 |
| TAS | Access Mental Health | 1800 332 388 |
| ACT | Access Mental Health / crisis assessment | 1800 629 354 |
| NT | NT Mental Health Line | 1800 682 288 |
3. Depression, Low Mood & Bipolar Disorder
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Information and support for depression, anxiety and related mental health concerns.
Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
Black Dog Institute
Evidence-based information, research and resources relating to depression, bipolar disorder and suicide prevention.
Website: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
MindSpot
Phone: 1800 614 434
Assessment and online psychological treatment programs for Australian adults experiencing anxiety, depression and related difficulties.
Website: https://www.mindspot.org.au/
MoodGYM
Interactive self-help program teaching cognitive behavioural therapy skills for depression and anxiety.
Website: https://moodgym.anu.edu.au/
4. Anxiety, Panic, Phobias & OCD
Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic)
Phone: 1300 269 438
Specialist Victorian information, support, education and referral for anxiety disorders and OCD-related concerns.
Website: https://www.arcvic.org.au/
Beyond Blue
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Information and support for anxiety, depression and related concerns.
Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
MindSpot
Phone: 1800 614 434
Online assessment and evidence-based psychological treatment.
Website: https://www.mindspot.org.au/
5. PTSD, Trauma & Complex Trauma
Phoenix Australia
Australian specialist centre for post-traumatic mental health, with information and resources about trauma, PTSD, recovery and treatment.
Website: https://www.phoenixaustralia.org/
Blue Knot Foundation
Phone: 1300 657 380
Support and information for adults affected by complex trauma and childhood abuse, and for supporters and professionals.
Website: https://blueknot.org.au/
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling
Phone: 1800 011 046
Mental health and wellbeing support for eligible veterans and families, including trauma and PTSD.
Website: https://www.openarms.gov.au/
6. Psychosis, Bipolar & Complex Mental Health
SANE Australia
Phone: 1800 187 263
Information and support for people living with complex or recurring mental health conditions and their families and carers.
Website: https://www.sane.org/
Black Dog Institute
Evidence-based information relating to mood disorders including bipolar disorder.
Website: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
For acute psychosis, mania, severe behavioural disturbance or an immediate psychiatric crisis, use the state/territory acute mental health services above or call 000 in an emergency.
7. Neurodivergence, Autism, ADHD & Mental Health
Neurodivergence describes natural differences in how people think, learn, communicate, process sensory information and experience the world. It can include autism, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental differences. Neurodivergence is not itself a mental illness; however, neurodivergent people may also experience mental health conditions and may need care adapted to communication, sensory and executive-function needs.
Neurodivergent mental health considerations
- Autistic people can experience co-occurring anxiety, depression and OCD, as well as autistic burnout, meltdowns and shutdowns.
- Mental health services should avoid assuming that distress, behavioural change or new symptoms are simply part of autism or ADHD.
- Helpful care may include clear and direct communication, additional processing time, predictable appointments, sensory adjustments, written information and collaborative planning.
- A neuro-affirming approach focuses on the person’s individual strengths, needs, identity, preferences and environment rather than treating neurodivergence itself as something to be cured.
- For suicidal thoughts, severe distress, psychosis, mania or immediate risk, use the same crisis and emergency pathways available to everyone, while communicating relevant sensory, communication and support needs.
Amaze / Autism Connect – National Autism Helpline
Phone: 1300 308 699
Free national autism information service for Autistic people, families, carers, professionals, teachers and employers. It can assist with autism identity, assessment information, education, NDIS, employment, communication and connections to supports. It is not a crisis or counselling service.
Website: https://www.amaze.org.au/autismconnect/
Amaze – Autism and Mental Health Resources
Resources for Autistic people and mental health services covering communication, co-occurring mental health concerns, autistic burnout, meltdowns, shutdowns and help-seeking.
Website: https://www.amaze.org.au/about-autism/mental-health/
Reframing Autism
Autistic-led neuro-affirming education, advocacy and community resources.
Website: https://reframingautism.org.au/
Yellow Ladybugs
Autistic-led support, advocacy and resources focused on autistic girls, women and gender-diverse people.
Website: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/
I CAN Network
Autistic-led mentoring and peer programs for Autistic and neurodivergent young people.
Website: https://icannetwork.online/
Positive Partnerships
Resources and programs supporting school-aged Autistic children, families, carers and school communities.
Website: https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/
Association for Children with a Disability (Victoria)
Information and advocacy for Victorian families of children with disability and developmental differences.
Website: https://www.acd.org.au/
Carer Gateway
Phone: 1800 422 737
Counselling, coaching, respite information and practical support for unpaid carers.
Website: https://www.carergateway.gov.au/
8. Domestic & Family Violence
1800RESPECT – National
Phone: 1800 737 732
National domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support.
Website: https://www.1800respect.org.au/
| State | Service | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| VIC | Safe Steps | 1800 015 188 |
| NSW | NSW Domestic Violence Line | 1800 656 463 |
| QLD | DVConnect Womensline | 1800 811 811 |
| SA | Domestic Violence Crisis Line | 1800 800 098 |
| WA | Family and Domestic Violence Support | 1800 007 339 |
| TAS | 1800RESPECT / local referral | 1800 737 732 |
| ACT | 1800RESPECT / local referral | 1800 737 732 |
| NT | 1800RESPECT / local referral | 1800 737 732 |
If there is immediate danger, call 000.
9. Sexual Assault, Abuse & Sexual Violence
1800RESPECT
Phone: 1800 737 732
National counselling, information and referral for people affected by sexual assault, domestic and family violence.
Website: https://www.1800respect.org.au/
Sexual Assault Crisis Line – Victoria
Phone: 1800 806 292
Specialist crisis support for people affected by sexual assault in Victoria.
People may also seek assistance from a GP, hospital emergency department or specialist sexual assault service. Call 000 in an immediate emergency.
10. Children, Young People & Families
Kids Helpline
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Free and confidential counselling and support for young people aged 5–25.
Website: https://kidshelpline.com.au/
headspace
Mental health and wellbeing support for young people aged 12–25.
Website: https://headspace.org.au/
ReachOut Australia
Digital mental health information, tools and resources for young people.
Website: https://au.reachout.com/
Raising Children Network
Evidence-based Australian parenting and child development information.
Website: https://raisingchildren.net.au/
COPMI
Resources for children and families where a parent experiences mental illness.
Website: https://www.copmi.net.au/
Maternal and Child Health Line – Victoria
Phone: 13 22 29
Telephone advice and support for Victorian families with young children.
11. Perinatal Mental Health, Pregnancy & New Parents
PANDA – Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia
Phone: 1300 726 306
Specialist mental health information and support during pregnancy and early parenthood.
Website: https://www.panda.org.au/
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby
Phone: 1800 882 436
Information and support relating to pregnancy, birth, babies and parenting.
Website: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/
12. Eating Disorders & Body Image
Butterfly Foundation – National Helpline
Phone: 1800 33 4673
Information, counselling and support for eating disorders, disordered eating and body-image concerns.
Website: https://butterfly.org.au/
13. Alcohol, Drugs, Smoking & Other Substance Use
DirectLine – Victoria
Phone: 1800 888 236
Confidential alcohol and drug counselling, information and referral.
Website: https://www.directline.org.au/
Alcohol and Drug Foundation
Evidence-based information about alcohol and other drugs.
Website: https://adf.org.au/
Family Drug Support
Phone: 1300 368 186
Support for families affected by another person’s alcohol or drug use.
Website: https://www.fds.org.au/
Quit
Information and support for people seeking help to stop smoking or vaping.
Website: https://www.quit.org.au/
14. Gambling
Gambling Help Online
Phone: 1800 858 858
Free and confidential gambling counselling and support.
Website: https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/
15. Grief, Bereavement & Loss
Griefline
Phone: 1300 845 745
Support for people experiencing grief, bereavement and loss.
Website: https://griefline.org.au/
Red Nose Grief and Loss
Phone: 1300 308 307
Specialist bereavement support following miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal or infant death.
Website: https://rednosegriefandloss.org.au/
16. Men’s Mental Health
MensLine Australia
Phone: 1300 78 99 78
Telephone and online counselling for men experiencing mental health, relationship, family and wellbeing concerns.
Website: https://mensline.org.au/
17. Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Support
13YARN
Phone: 13 92 76
Culturally safe crisis and emotional support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Website: https://www.13yarn.org.au/
18. LGBTIQ+SB Mental Health & Wellbeing
QLife
Phone: 1800 184 527
Confidential peer support and referral for LGBTIQ+ people, families and communities.
Website: https://qlife.org.au/
19. Veterans, Defence Personnel & Families
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling
Phone: 1800 011 046
Confidential mental health and wellbeing counselling for eligible veterans and families.
Website: https://www.openarms.gov.au/
ADF All-hours Support Line
Phone: 1800 628 036
24-hour support for Australian Defence Force members.
Defence Member and Family Support
Phone: 1800 624 608
Information and support for Defence members and families.
20. Carers & Family Support
Carer Gateway
Phone: 1800 422 737
Counselling, coaching, respite information and practical support for unpaid carers.
Website: https://www.carergateway.gov.au/
SANE Australia
Phone: 1800 187 263
Support for people with complex mental health conditions and families/carers.
Website: https://www.sane.org/
21. Bullying, Cyberbullying & Online Safety
eSafety Commissioner
Australian Government online safety information and assistance relating to cyberbullying, online abuse and image-based abuse.
Website: https://www.esafety.gov.au/
Kids Helpline
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Counselling and support for children and young people experiencing bullying and cyberbullying.
Website: https://kidshelpline.com.au/
22. Multicultural & CALD Mental Health
Embrace Multicultural Mental Health
Mental health information and resources focused on culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Website: https://embracementalhealth.org.au/
TIS National – Translating and Interpreting Service
Phone: 13 14 50
Interpreting support for people who need assistance communicating in English.
Website: https://www.tisnational.gov.au/
23. Financial Stress & Debt
National Debt Helpline
Phone: 1800 007 007
Free financial counselling for people experiencing financial difficulties or debt.
Website: https://ndh.org.au/
MoneySmart
Australian Government budgeting, debt and money-management information and tools.
Website: https://moneysmart.gov.au/
MoneyMinded
Financial education designed to build money-management knowledge and confidence.
Website: https://www.moneyminded.com.au/
24. Relationships & Family Support
Relationships Australia
Phone: 1300 364 277
Counselling, relationship support and family services for individuals, couples and families.
Website: https://relationships.org.au/
25. Finding a Psychologist, Psychiatrist or Therapist
Receptiveminds.com – Find a Psychologist, Clinical Psychotherapist, Social Worker, Counsellor etc.
123psych.net – online therapy
Australian Psychological Society – Find a psychologist
Search for psychologists by location and area of practice.
Website: https://psychology.org.au/find-a-psychologist
RANZCP – Find a Psychiatrist
Information about psychiatry and a directory for finding psychiatrists.
Website: https://www.yourhealthinmind.org/find-a-psychiatrist
PACFA – Find a Therapist
Directory for registered counsellors and psychotherapists.
Website: https://pacfa.org.au/
General Practitioner (GP)
A GP can assess mental health concerns, discuss treatment options and referrals, and advise about Medicare-supported mental health treatment.
26. General Mental Health Information & Service Navigation
Medicare Mental Health
Phone: 1800 595 212
Information and assistance connecting people with appropriate mental health services.
Website: https://www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au/
Healthdirect Australia
Phone: 1800 022 222
Australian health information, health advice and service-finding resources.
Website: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/
Better Health Channel – Victoria
Victorian Government health and medical information, including mental health and wellbeing services.
Website: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/
Mental Health Australia
National peak body representing Australia’s mental health sector.
Website: https://mhaustralia.org/
Important Information
This directory provides general information and links to independent external services. Receptive Minds does not control their content, eligibility criteria, hours or availability. Information should be checked with the relevant organisation before relying on it.
Seek urgent help if a person is in immediate danger, has attempted suicide, has seriously harmed themselves, is at immediate risk of suicide or serious self-harm, or poses an immediate serious risk to another person. Call 000 in an emergency.
Editorial note: This reorganised directory incorporates the material supplied from the existing Receptive Minds useful-links content and adds a dedicated neurodivergence and mental-health section. Key autism mental-health information was cross-checked against current Amaze/Autism Connect resources in September 2026.
