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 (000). Your call is being connected.' An operator will answer your call and ask whether you need Police, Fire or Ambulance, and they will then connect you to the appropriate emergency service once you have confirmed the state and town or suburb that you are calling from.
When you call Triple Zero (000):
- stay calm and give the operator all the relevant details.
- don't hang up until you have spoken to emergency services.
Once connected to an emergency services operator
Once you have been connected to the appropriate emergency services operator (e.g. Ambulance) you will then be asked a series of questions depending on the situation such as;
- the address and location of the emergency
- the telephone number you are calling from (or a telephone number that you can be back contacted on)
- what the problem is
- if the person is conscious or breathing
- how many people are injured
- the person's age and gender
The operator may give you helpful advice while the emergency service is on its way.
Do not hang up until the operator tells you to. You may need to stay on the line until the emergency service(s) arrive.
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.
- If you have a smartphone make use of the map or an appropriate app to help determine your location.
Download the Emergency+ app
The Emergency+ app (https://emergencyapp.triplezero.gov.au) can help you if you don’t know your exact location when you call Triple Zero (000). The app uses the GPS on your smartphone to give you a location address where available, or 3 words (https://www.what3words.com) that can assist the emergency services operator identify your location.
Further information regarding calling Triple Zero (000) is available at the following link: https://www.triplezero.gov.au/triple-zero/How-to-Call-000