24/08/2026
Useful information!
What to expect when calling 000
In an emergency, getting help quickly is what matters most. That's why all Australian mobile network operators work behind the scenes to help your Triple Zero (000) call connect. Even when you are outside Telstra coverage, a 000 call can still be made, if another mobile network is available.
Here’s how it works, the backups in place, and what to do if you’re having trouble connecting.
What happens when you call 000?
When you call 000 from a mobile phone, it will first try to connect using your mobile network. If your network isn't available, your phone will try to connect to another mobile network, if available. This is known as ‘emergency camp-on’.
What does emergency camp-on mean?
If your network is unavailable, your phone looks for another available mobile network and temporarily connects to call 000. You don’t need to change any settings or do anything yourself. It works automatically at no cost to you – even without an active SIM in your phone.
What to do if your 000 call doesn't seem to be connecting?
1. The emergency camp-on process can take time to connect to another network. Generally, there will be silence on the line while this happens. If your initial call doesn’t connect within around five seconds, hang up and try again immediately.
2. On subsequent attempts, stay on the line for up to 60 seconds to give your phone the best chance to connect.
All phones are different: if emergency camp-on is available, iPhone will show ‘SOS’ or ‘SOS only’ depending on iOS version. Android will show ‘Emergency calls only’, ‘No service – emergency calls only’ or a small SOS icon.
If your phone shows ‘No service’, there is no mobile network coverage available where you are and you will not be able to call 000 using a mobile network. You may also see a satellite connection on some phones – but the same applies as 000 can't currently be reached over satellite.
Look for other ways to get help while you’re holding the line
Emergency camp-on won’t work if you are out of range of any network. In this situation:
• Use a landline phone or public phone, if available.
• Connect to Wi-Fi and use Wi-Fi calling on your device. Learn more about Wi-Fi Calling.
More information
If you cannot connect to Triple Zero, keep yourself safe, move away from danger if possible, help others where safe to do so, seek help from people nearby or, use any available means to contact emergency services.
Your safety is incredibly important to us. Access to 000 is a vital service, and we remain committed to providing reliable ways for customers to connect during an emergency.
For more information on connecting to 000, please visit triplezero.gov.au.
