In an emergency, call 000
In an emergency phone triple zero '000'. In Australia you can also dial 112 from mobile phones if you are out of phone network range.
What to expect when you dial 000
When you dial 000, first you must say if you need police, fire or ambulance.
If you need an interpreter, tell the operator. Tell them the name of your language in English.
- When you are connected to the service you need, the operator asks you questions so they know how to help you.
- The operator may ask you to tell them where you are, including your address and the phone number you are calling from.
- During the call, stay calm. Don't shout or scream. Speak slowly and clearly.
- Tell the operator exactly where to come. Give an exact address or location. The operator may ask to know the nearest intersection (cross street)
- The person talking to you is trained and knows what to do. Listen carefully to their instructions.
You can dial 112 from a mobile
Even if you do not have a network connection, you can dial 112 from a mobile phone. If you dial 112 you are connected to the 000 service.
Dial 106 if you have hearing or speech impairment
If you are deaf or have a speech or hearing impairment call 106.
- 106 is a Text Emergency Call. Call 106. Do not SMS.
- You can call 106 from teletypewriters.
- Tell the system which service you need and where to come.
Hospital emergency departments
Most major hospitals have emergency departments where you can go in a health crisis if an ambulance is not required.
If you go to an emergency department, a health professional assesses your situation.
If there are many people in the waiting room, you may have to wait while the staff help other people with more urgent problems than yours. Stay calm, even if you feel anxious and upset.
Read more about Hospital emergency departments on the Better Health Channel website.
Other emergency services
Poisons information centre - 13 11 26
The poisons information centre help line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call the helpline if you or someone near you has been poisoned, has overdosed, has made a mistake with medicines. You should also call the helpline for help if someone has been bitten or stung by a snake, spider, bee, wasp or other poisonous creature.
Nurse-on-Call - 1300 606 024
The Victorian Government’s Nurse-on-Call service is free.
Call 1300 606 024 to reach Nurse-on-Call.
Sometimes if you call Nurse-on-Call, the nurse may tell you to go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Mental health emergencies - 131 114
If you or someone you know is talking about suicide get help immediately.
Contact Lifeline 24-hour crisis phone line on 131 114. Lifeline connects you with someone who will listen and give you help at any time.
Dental emergencies
Call the Royal Dental Hospital in Carlton. The hospital may refer you to a clinic closer to where you live.
