Australia has an extensive network of free services funded by federal, state, and local governments — plus charities and community organisations. Most people only discover them during a crisis. This guide covers the services you're already paying for through taxes but probably don't know exist.
Many free services are available to everyone regardless of income.
Free Legal Help
Legal Aid
Every state has a Legal Aid office — free legal advice and representation for family, criminal, housing, and debt matters. Income-tested but thresholds are higher than most assume.
NSW: 1300 888 529 • VIC: 1300 792 387 • QLD: 1300 651 188
Community Legal Centres
Over 180 centres across Australia. Free advice, no income test. Specialise in tenancy, employment, consumer, and immigration law. Find yours at clcaustralia.org.au.
Fair Work Commission
Free dispute resolution for unfair dismissal, bullying, underpayment. Call 13 13 94.
Free Mental Health Support
| Service | What You Get | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Plan | 10 subsidised psychology sessions/year | Ask your GP |
| Head to Health | Walk-in centres, no referral | headtohealth.gov.au |
| Beyond Blue | 24/7 phone + online counselling | 1300 22 4636 |
| Lifeline | 24/7 crisis support | 13 11 14 |
| headspace | Free care for 12–25 year olds | headspace.org.au |
Free Financial Help
Financial Counselling
Free, independent, confidential. Counsellors negotiate with creditors, explain options, connect you to hardship programs. National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007.
No Interest Loans (NILS)
$300–$2,000 loans for essentials (appliances, car repairs, medical). For Health Care/Pension Card holders. goodshep.org.au/services/nils.
Tax Help
ATO's free tax return preparation (Jul–Oct) for people earning under $60,000. Trained volunteers. ato.gov.au/taxhelp.
Free Health Services
Public Dental Clinics
Every state runs public dental for concession card holders. Children: Child Dental Benefits Schedule — up to $1,095 over 2 years.
PBS Safety Net
Concession holders pay max $7.70/script. After $262.80/year, all further scripts are free.
Free Immunisations
National Immunisation Program covers children, teens, 50+, pregnant women, Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander people.
Free Everyday Essentials
Food Relief
OzHarvest, Foodbank, Salvation Army. No paperwork at most locations.
Utility Relief Grants
Emergency grants for electricity, gas, water. Apply through your provider or state government.
Free Wi-Fi + Computers
Every public library. Many also offer free digital literacy classes.
Free English Classes (AMEP)
510 hours free tuition for eligible migrants/refugees. Childcare at many centres.
Don't Forget: Ask Specifically
The biggest reason people miss out is not knowing to ask. When contacting any government service, always ask: "Is there anything else I might be eligible for?"
Sources: Services Australia (servicesaustralia.gov.au) • Legal Aid NSW/VIC/QLD • National Debt Helpline (ndh.org.au) • healthdirect (healthdirect.gov.au) • AMEP (homeaffairs.gov.au). Eligibility for each service varies — check the provider's website for your specific circumstances. Last verified: March 2026.