Australia Emergency

For an emergency

In an emergency, you’ll need to dial the phone number 000. This is a free call from all phones located in Australia (which includes mobile phones). Please be mindful that this contact number should only be used in life-threatening situations in which you need to contact the ambulance, police or fire brigade. Also, you may dial this number if you wish to forward details about witnessing a crime that is in progress. However, you may not dial this number for matters not deemed an emergency; for instance, if you’re lost, forgotten the keys to your house, or have a fever and need the name of your nearest doctor.

It may be useful to know that when you call 000, an operator will connect you to the appropriate department. So be prepared to answer some basic questions about the nature of your call including what service you require (i.e. police, fire or ambulance). Also, to help the operator designate your call, it is very important to stay calm so you can provide the operator with clear information regarding the emergency. You can further assist the operator by being specific in your details. For instance, you can help them by telling them exactly where you’re located (i.e. your exact address, any noteworthy landmarks that pinpoint your exact position such as a bridge or statue and any nearest cross streets).  

As you’re waiting for help to arrive, try to minimize any further danger to yourself and to others as best as possible. In Australia, the emergency services should respond to your call and arrive at the scene very quickly. Once the emergency services are in attendance, it is advised that you allow them to handle the incident according to their protocols as they are professionally trained in such matters.


How to report a crime

When you require police assistance but the matter is not an emergency, you will need to contact your local police station. You can either see them in person or phone them directly. However, if you’re unsure where your nearest police station is located, you may call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.

Furthermore, you are advised to go to the nearest police station or call the Police Assistance Line if you wish to report a theft and live in:

•    The ACT
•    New South Wales
•    Tasmania
•    Northern Territory
•    South Australia
•    Western Australia

However, if you live in either Victoria or Queensland, you will need to contact your local police station to report a theft.


For the Australian Emergency Services

In Australia, the SES (State Emergency Services) provides specialized assistance to the police, ambulance and fire brigade. In fact, the SES has a separate branch in each of Australia’s states and territories that is equipped to respond to emergencies such as bushfires, severe floods, evacuations, search and rescue operations and other specific incidents where mass casualties are probable. However, the SES may also help you if your housing has been damaged from a storm and you require immediate assistance. Their contact number is 132 500 Australia wide.