I need help

I'm a long time lurker but first time poster.<br><br>I'm a 22 year old with a passion for writing, and I have just finished writing my first book. I'm still pretty new to writing and I'm not sure of the next step to get my book published. I'm overwhelmed by all the steps that I need to take to get my book published and all the information that I need to follow. I've heard that using publishing services is a bad idea and most of the time writers are discouraged from using them.<br><br>I'm not sure how to find a publisher or how to find a literary agent. I live in Australia and don't know if I need to find a publisher or agent that is local or if I can get an international publisher or agent.<br><br>I need help so please can someone help me with how I can get my book published. <br><br>Thank you and I'm sorry if this post is in the wrong place.