Helplines in Australia

Lifeline provides all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. While not exclusively for child neglect, they offer support for individuals in distress, which can include concerns related to family problems and mental health that may stem from or lead to neglect.

24/7 free counselling and support for anyone impacted by sexual, domestic or family violence. Trained trauma specialists provide telephone, online and face-to-face counselling.

24/7 national health advice line staffed by registered nurses. Provides health information, symptom assessment, and guidance on whether to seek medical care. Best general resource for chronic illness queries when no specialist helpline exists.

Support line for young people or parents looking for support with bullying – at school, online or beyond. No referral is needed.

Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health. Their support service offers brief counselling and a listening ear for people experiencing emotional distress, anxiety, depression, or needing to support a loved one. They can also help find other mental health services.

Kids Helpline is a free and confidential 24/7 phone and online chat counselling service for children and young people aged 5 to 25, anywhere in Australia, anytime, for any reason. They provide counselling support for a range of issues, including family problems and problems at school or work, which can be related to child neglect.

Provides free, confidential support and counselling for anyone affected by gambling, including family members and friends. Offers immediate access to trained counsellors, information, and referrals to support services. Available 24/7.

Provides free and confidential information and support for people who have concerns about their own, or someone else's alcohol and/or other drug use. You will be directed to the relevant alcohol and drug support service for your state or territory.

Provides phone and online counselling for anyone who has lost someone to suicide. Offers resources on complicated bereavement, shock, guilt, anger, and loneliness. Also provides information on legal considerations following a suicide and supporting adolescents and young children bereaved by suicide.

Provides specialised bereavement support free of charge to anyone affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or child during pregnancy, birth, infancy or childhood. Offers a 24/7 support line, counselling, online support, and peer support groups.