For urgent help

If you're distressed and need immediate help, call triple zero (000).

If you need support or information

If you need information, support, or a referral, you need to call 07 4226 2777. This is your first point of contact for alcohol and other drug services.

For people under 18 years, AODS can refer you to a youth-friendly service.

What you can expect when you call our AOD service

When you call 07 4226 2777, you'll speak to a trained operator who will ask you for some personal information. This helps us to determine which service you need.

If your call is urgent, you'll be transferred to a clinician straightaway. Otherwise we'll arrange for a clinician to call you back at a time that's convenient for you.

Our clinicians are trained and experienced health professionals.

Choosing an AOD service

A clinician will talk to you about your concerns and discuss a management plan with you. This may include further assessment. This process is called a triage and usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

They'll assess your circumstances and advise which treatment or support is available to you.

Your treatment may be provided on a one to one basis or in a group with others with similar needs. Therapy can also sometimes involve partners and families.

Satellite sites

We have other sites in our health service (outside of Cairns) where you may be able to get treatment closer to your home.

Mossman: 07 4084 1232

Innisfail: 07 4016 1637

Tablelands: 07 4092 9365

Last updated: September 2024