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What is Waypoints?

Waypoints is a free, multilingual directory of community services in Melbourne — plus an SMS assistant you can text when you are not sure what you need. No login, no app, no cost.

The problem it solves

Most people who need support do not fail because help does not exist — they fail at the first step, which is knowing where to start. Which service is closest? Is it free? Does anyone there speak my language? Are they open today? Waypoints answers those four questions before you pick up the phone.

Three ways to use it

Search the directory

Filter by suburb, category and language on waypoints.au.

Use the map

The map view shows every service near you as a pin, colour-coded by category.

Text us

Send a message to +61 468 094 368 in your language and get 2–3 free services back.

What it covers

Mental health, emergency food relief, housing and financial help, family violence support, legal aid, alcohol and other drugs, parenting and family services, multicultural and settlement support, LGBTQIA+ services, youth services and healthcare including bulk-billing GPs.

Why the listings can be trusted

Listings are checked with the organisation that actually runs the service and re-checked regularly, so hours, phone numbers and eligibility stay current. Verified services carry a badge. Crisis services are always shown first when a crisis is detected.

Languages

English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Arabic, Vietnamese, Punjabi, Greek, Italian and Hindi — across the website, the chat assistant and SMS, including the service details themselves.

Privacy

No name required, no address required, and your phone number is never shared or sold. Read the full privacy policy.

Next steps

New to Australia? Read how to get free services as a newcomer. Run a service? Become a Waypoints partner and get listed for free. More on our about page.