Safety Essentials: International Student Emergency Contact In Australia
Navigating life as an international student can be challenging, but Australia provides a robust, confidential support network. Your Education Provider (university or college) is your best first contact for academic and welfare advice. However, for immediate crises or confidential external support, these national services are available 24/7.
If you are looking for support in a language other than English, you can call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask them to connect you to any of these services.
Don't hesitate to reach out—using these free local resources is a smart step toward ensuring your safety and well-being while studying abroad. Save these numbers now—you’ll be glad you did!
Emergency (Life-Threatening or Time Critical)
Service | Emergency Number | When to Call |
|---|---|---|
Police, Fire, or Ambulance | 000 (Triple Zero) | If a life is threatened, a crime is happening now, or you need urgent medical attention or fire assistance. |
TTY and Internet Relay Users | 106 | Text-based emergency call service. |
Non-Emergency Contacts
Service | Number | When to Call |
|---|---|---|
Policelink (Non-Urgent Police) | 131 444 | For non-urgent police matters, like reporting a crime that is not currently happening, or for general police enquiries. |
State Emergency Service (SES) | 132 500 | For help with flood and storm damage (e.g., damaged roof, fallen trees on buildings, rising water). |
13 HEALTH (Health Advice) | 13 43 25 84 | To speak with a registered nurse for advice on non-urgent medical conditions 24/7. |
Crime Stoppers | 1800 333 000 | To anonymously provide information about unsolved crimes or suspicious activity. |
Poisons Information Centre | 13 11 26 | For advice on suspected poisoning or venomous bites/stings. |
Lifeline (Crisis Support) | 13 11 14 | For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services. |
Important Tips for Calling 000:
- Stay Calm: Speak slowly and clearly.
- State Your Service: The operator will ask: "Police, Fire, or Ambulance?" Say the service you need.
- Provide Location: Give the exact address or location (street name, nearest cross street, and suburb). If you use the Emergency+ App, it can provide your exact GPS coordinates!
- Translation Service: If you cannot speak English, the operator can connect you with a free translation service.