Individuals and communities should take steps to prevent, and prepare for, any emergency situation. This may be a terrorist attack, or an emergency evacuation.
Be prepared to help yourself and others to stay safe, and report any information that you can to police.
All of us have a role to play.
Call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency
For urgent assistance from police, ambulance or the fire brigade, call Triple Zero (000). This is a free call from any phone in Australia, even a phone box or disconnected mobile phone.
For TTY users (hearing/speech impaired), call 106.
After you dial Triple Zero (000), an operator will ask if you require ambulance, police or fire services.
When you are on the phone, remain calm and speak slowly. Do not hang up until the operator has received the required information.
Call Triple Zero (000) in a life threatening or time critical emergency, such as when:
- someone is seriously injured or in danger
- there is serious risk to life or property
- a crime is being committed and/or a further crime may be committed
- someone you suspect has committed a crime is close by or their location is known, and there is an opportunity to arrest the suspect
- witnesses may leave the scene of a crime or evidence might be lost if police do not get there quickly
- a victim is seriously distressed.
Make a report
Who to contact if you see or hear activity that you believe could be suspicious or concerning. Any information you have can help police.
Report suspicious activity
If you see or hear suspicious activity anywhere in Australia, call the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
Report online extremism
We encourage members of the public to report objectionable material to either social media providers, or through the reporting tool at eSafety Commissioner - Report online harm.
The National Security Hotline (NSH) provides further information on the topic of terrorism and violent extremism and points of contact.
Report concerning behaviour
If you are concerned that someone you know is at risk of involvement in violent extremism, reach out for support at Step Together.
If you hold immediate or significant concerns surrounding an individual, please contact your local police station or the National Security Hotline.
If anyone is in danger, a crime is currently occurring, or you need immediate police attendance, please call Triple Zero (000).
Preparedness at home
In an emergency situation or terrorist incident, essential services in your home may fail. Electricity may be affected or cut off due to power failure, and telephone services may become difficult to access due to congestion (overuse).
You can take steps to prepare your home and community for an emergency situation.
Always follow the instructions of police and authorities in your area.
Key contacts and resources
Key contacts and resources to assist you to report suspicious activity, or quickly respond to an emergency situation.
Updated