Alcoholics Anonymous Australia holds 60th National Convention on the Gold Coast
Surfers Paradise, QLD Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Australia will hold its 60th National Convention from May 1–4, 2026, at the JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. The event, themed “Steps to Recovery,” brings together members from across the country and from overseas to share their collective experience in recovering from alcoholism.
Event Information:
- What: 2026 AA National Convention
- When: May 1–4, 2026 (PI Meeting: Friday, May 1, 5:00 PM)
- Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise
- Contact: Marg (PI Enquiries) at 0434 614 702 or 2026.aapi@gmail.com
- Website: www.aanatcon2026.com.au
As part of the convention, a Public Information meeting will also be held on Friday, May 1, from 5:00 pm to 6:15 pm. This meeting is open to members of the public and professionals, including those in the healthcare, legal, and community services professions, who wish to learn more about how AA functions. The session will provide information on what AA is, what it is not, and how it serves as a community resource. There will be an "ask it" basket for attendees to submit anonymous questions.
Sharing the Message During the Convention AA members from all over Australia will participate in sharing their personal journeys of recovery. Among the speakers are two members travelling from the United States. The event serves as an opportunity for the fellowship to focus on its primary purpose: staying sober and helping other alcoholics to achieve sobriety. The weekend won’t be entirely serious, however. The important message of AA will be interspersed with entertainment, fellowship and fun.
About us:
About Alcoholics Anonymous: Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions.
A 2025 survey of the Australian membership highlights how the fellowship reflects a broad cross-section of the general public. While the stereotype of a "typical" member is often misunderstood, data shows that the fellowship is diverse and inclusive and reflects the fact that alcoholism affects people from all walks of life. Research also shows that recovery is possible for anyone with a desire to stop drinking.
With over 2,000 weekly meetings across Australia, AA remains a free and independent resource. As a fellowship, AA is self-supporting through its own contributions and is not allied with any sect, denomination, political party, organisation or institution. Its presence on the Gold Coast for this national event continues a 80-year tradition of carrying the message of recovery to those who seek it.
We respectfully request that the media maintain the AA tradition of anonymity. Please do not use full names or recognizable photographs of any AA members. This practice ensures that the focus remains on the principles of recovery rather than personalities.
Contact details:
Neil Schafer
neilschafer@aa.org.au
Ph: 0403 227 667
