What happens on a 000 call?

You can call 000 in an emergency, even if you are not confident speaking English.

You can ask for an interpreter if you need one.

The most important thing is to get help fast.

a person who translates languages

When you call 000, you will hear this message:

“You have dialled emergency triple zero. Your call is being connected.”

A person holding a smartphone displaying the number triple zero on the screen, ready to make a call.

When the call connects, the operator will ask you:

"Emergency: Police, Fire or Ambulance?"

Say the service you need.

The operator will ask:

”What state and town is the emergency in?”

They want to know: The town and state where your emergency is.

Tell them your town and state.

For example: Melbourne, Victoria

For example: Shepparton, Victoria

The operator will transfer you to your chosen emergency service.

You can ask for an interpreter anytime now.

If you ask for an interpreter, say your language in English.

Say: "Interpreter. Tamil"

Two women wearing headsets are interpreting a phone call in a professional work environment.
a person who translates languages

Try to answer a few questions in English.

The quicker you say your address, the quicker you get help.

It’s OK if you make mistakes!

The operator asks the most important question first:

“Where do you need help?”

Tell the operator the address of your emergency.

Overhead perspective of a suburban area featuring homes, roads, and landscaped gardens.

The operator will ask:

“Tell me exactly what happened?”

or

“Why do you need help?”

Try to tell them about your emergency.

The operator will ask more questions to get the details of your emergency.

Answer in English if you can.

Do your best to answer.

It’s OK to say “I don’t know.”

Remember, you can ask for an interpreter at any time.

Say ‘interpreter’ and your language in English.

Stay calm and follow the instructions.

Emergency services are here to help everyone, including migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers!