Tips for reaching 000 if you’re having trouble connecting

Tips for reaching 000 if you’re having trouble connecting

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 Wholesale Mobile Network 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, your phone 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 one is 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?

The emergency camp-on process can take time to connect to another network. Generally, there will be silence on the line while this happens.

  1. 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.

How can you tell if emergency camp-on is available?

Phones display different messages when they’re connected to an available network for an emergency call.

 Device What you may see
iPhone “SOS” or “SOS only”, depending on your iOS version
Android “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. You will not be able to call 000 using a mobile network.

Look for other ways to get help while you're holding the line

Emergency camp-on won’t work if you’re out of range of every mobile network. If this happens:

  • Use a landline or public phone, if one is available.
  • Connect to Wi-Fi and use Wi-Fi Calling on your device, if supported by your phone and service.

More information

If you can’t connect to Triple Zero, keep yourself safe, move away from danger if possible, help others where it’s safe to do so, and use any available means to contact emergency services.

Access to 000 is a vital service. For more information about connecting to 000, visit triplezero.gov.au.