What is Alpha?

Big questions deserve honest conversations.

Maybe you’ve been wondering about faith for a while, or you’re curious about what Christians believe. Maybe life feels uncertain, and you’ve got more questions than answers. Wherever you’re at, Alpha is a space to talk about those things – with no pressure, no cost, and no judgment.

Each Alpha is typically hosted by a local church or group that simply wants to create space for honest conversations. Every week, people from all walks of life come together, share a meal or a cup of coffee, watch a short video, and discuss big questions – things like, ‘Is there more to life than this?’ or ‘Why does faith still matter today?’. It’s completely free to attend an Alpha, and everyone is welcome.

How does Alpha work?

Every Alpha is built around three key elements: connection, content and conversation.

You don’t have to have it all figured out – just start with a conversation.

Connection

Pull up a chair

We’re built for connection. Every Alpha session begins around a table with time to meet new people, build friendships, and create a comfortable space for meaningful conversations. No awkwardness, just genuine connection.

Content

Watch a video together

Each session covers a different topic of faith, designed to engage and inspire conversation. The videos explore ideas about faith and unpack the basics of Christianity, addressing questions such as ‘Who is Jesus?’, ‘How can we have faith?’ and ‘How does God guide us?’

Conversation

Ask away!

Bring your questions, because you’re not alone in asking them. For many, the best part of Alpha is the small group discussions. There’s no pressure, no off-limits topics, and no wrong questions. Say what’s on your mind – really.

Ready to try Alpha?

Find an Alpha

Search below to find an Alpha near you. Wherever you find yourself in life, you’re welcome to come and see!

Questions about Jesus?spirituality?relationships?church?value?ambition?acceptance?friendship?loneliness?

Is God real?
Is the Bible true?
Does prayer work?
Explore faith

Discover more about faith

Are you curious about Jesus, the Bible, or what Christians actually believe? Alpha is where you can discover more without pressure or judgment.

Alpha Stories

Hear stories from people who have tried Alpha

Alpha Guest

Tommy

“[Alpha] was the first few times where I actually engaged in prayer… you don’t really get an opportunity to ask yourself those kinds of questions in day to day conversations. They really spoke to something deeper within all of us…”

Alpha Guest

Rikki

“[On the Alpha weekend, I experienced] this overwhelming love and healing that was taking place…”

Alpha Guest

Jackson

“I think everyone should do it, whether you’re a Christian or not… Alpha is a very welcoming place.”

Try Alpha

Ready to try Alpha?

Find an Alpha

Use the Find an Alpha tool to locate an Alpha near you.

Questions?

We're here to help!

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be religious to come to Alpha?

Not at all. Alpha is for anyone curious about life, faith, or meaning, whether you go to church, used to, or never have. You don’t need to believe in God or know anything about the Bible. Just bring your questions and an open mind.

What if I don’t know anyone?

Most people come to Alpha not knowing anyone. You’ll be welcomed into a small group where it’s easy to connect, listen, and share. The conversations are relaxed and friendly. By the end of the first week, most people feel like they’ve made new friends.

Is Alpha really free?

Yes! There’s no cost and no catch. Local churches run Alpha as a gift to their communities because they believe everyone should have the chance to explore life and faith freely.

Do I have to talk at Alpha?

No, you’re welcome to just listen. Alpha is a safe space where you can be yourself. You’ll never be pressured to share or to believe anything. You can take part as much or as little as you like.

What if I try Alpha and it isn’t for me?

That’s completely okay. Many people come to Alpha just to see what it’s like. You can try one week and decide from there; no commitment, no awkward exit. However, most people find the conversations so genuine and welcoming that they want to return.

Who runs Alpha?

Alpha is hosted by local churches and groups all over Australia. Every Alpha looks a little different; some are in homes, cafés, or workplaces, and others in schools or online, but the heart is always the same: a space to explore life and faith together.

How long does Alpha go for?

Most Alphas run for about 8–10 weeks, meeting once a week, and often with one full day away together. But you don’t have to come every time. Just start with one night and see what you think.

What if I’m not sure what I believe?

That’s exactly what Alpha is for. You don’t have to pretend or have everything figured out. Many people who come to Alpha are still exploring what they believe, and that’s the best place to start.