I've used the 12 steps to foster the spiritual outlook and mental attitude needed to keep sober and grow and I continue to use them as I step 3, 10 and 11 everyday. I've not really been an AA person though and only been to a few meetings. However, I've managed to keep sober without a sponsor but have to admit it would be nice to speak to someone who is on the journey and get advise from them. I don't get lonely often and "golden key" it if I do.
To be honest I'm not even sure that sponsorship is common in the Australian AA community. I've never heard it mentioned in the meetings I've been to. Maybe someone who is from Australia here can share their experiences as a sponsor or working with a sponsor.