Sydney. 26 August, 2025
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Australia has announced a nationwide call for stories from members who have experienced incarceration or have been involved in carrying the AA message into correctional facilities. This initiative supports the creation of a powerful new publication: "AA On the Inside" – an anthology aimed at reaching thousands of incarcerated individuals struggling with alcohol dependency.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, as of June 2024, more than 44,000 adults were held across 116 correctional facilities nationwide. Among them, a significant 44% reported alcohol-related harm in the 12 months leading up to their imprisonment. These staggering figures highlight the urgent need for meaningful resources and connection for those behind bars.
The upcoming book, inspired by the success of AA's Message Stick* and the American AA's Free on the Inside**, will feature personal stories of recovery from AA members who have been incarcerated or supported AA outreach within prisons. The goal is to extend hope and recovery to prisoners, especially in facilities where direct access to AA groups remains difficult due to limited personnel or administrative barriers.
"This anthology could become a lifeline for someone on the inside," said a spokesperson for the "AA On the Inside Working Group". "Even if we can't physically reach every inmate, our stories can."
How to Participate
AA is seeking submissions that follow the traditional AA story structure:
- What it was like
- What happened
- What it's like now
Submissions should be around 2,000 words (flexible) and may be edited for clarity and length. Audio recordings are also welcome but must be transcribed. All accepted submissions will require a signed release and will become the property of the General Service Board of Alcoholics Anonymous, in accordance with standard AA practice.
"But for the grace of God," AA reminds members, "any one of us could be on the inside. Sharing your experience may help save a life."
Deadline and Submission
