Knowledgebase · About IRC & AustNet

Finding channels to join on AustNet

Updated 22 Sep 2026 Support Operations

Discovering active communities, support rooms, and conversational spaces on AustNet is quick and straightforward. Whether you are looking for technical assistance, casual chat, or community groups, there are a few primary ways to explore what the network has to offer.


1. Browse the Web Channel List

If you prefer browsing through your web browser before connecting or while setting up your client, you can view active public channels directly online.


  1. Where to go: Visit austnet.org/channels to see a structured overview of registered public channels, topic descriptions, and current user counts.

2. Use the /list Command in Your Client

You can query the live server directly from your chat application to pull up a full list of open channels currently running across the network.


  1. How to use it: Type /list into your active status or channel window.
  2. Tip for large networks: Listing every single channel can sometimes return a massive volume of results or trigger server flood protections. Many clients allow you to filter results (e.g., /list >5 to show only channels with more than 5 users).

3. Join #help for Recommendations

If you are unsure where to go or are looking for specific communities that match your interests, human guidance is just a command away.


  1. How to use it: Type /join #help to enter the official support channel. Friendly operators and regular users are always happy to point you in the right direction, answer questions, or recommend active rooms.


About AustNet

AustNet is an Australian IRC network. A brief history, what makes it different, and who runs it.

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AustNet services: NickOP, ChanOP, and HelpOP explained

NickOP manages nickname registrations, ChanOP manages channel registrations, and HelpOP provides in-network help. How each one works.

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How AustNet is structured: servers and routing

AustNet runs InspIRCd. How IRC servers link together, what irc.austnet.org resolves to, and what to do if one server is unreachable.

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IRC security: protecting your account and privacy

Best practices: use SSL, register your nick, enable +x cloak, keep your password private, and never share credentials over IRC.

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