What happens when you call Triple Zero (000)?
When you dial Triple Zero (000) you will first hear the recorded message: 'You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected.' An operator will answer your call and ask whether you need police, fire and rescue or ambulance. You do not need to explain your emergency to the operator; simply let them know which service you need.
If you call Triple Zero:
- stay calm and give the operator all the relevant details
- don't hang up until you have spoken to emergency services.
Will the operator know where I am calling from?
If you call Triple Zero from a landline, the operator will be able to see your location on screen. You will still need to confirm what town and state you are calling from.
If you call Triple Zero from a mobile phone or VoIP service, the operator will not know where you are calling from. You will need to provide as much information as possible about where you are.
Tips for helping emergency services find you
- Provide the street number, street name, nearest cross street and the area, including distances from landmarks and roads as well as the property name (especially in rural areas)
- If you call while travelling, state the direction you are travelling, the last motorway exit or town you passed and a description of the vehicle you're in.
Calling an ambulance in an emergency
If you are calling an ambulance, the operator may ask you:
- the address of the emergency
- what the problem is
- how many people are injured
- the person's age
- the person's gender
- if the person is conscious
- if the person is breathing
The operator may give you first-aid advice while the ambulance is on its way.
Do not hang up until the operator tells you to. You may need to hold the line until an ambulance arrives.
