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How Emergency Calls Work on Your Mobile?

  • Writer: Eddy
    Eddy
  • Sep 11
  • 2 min read

Have you ever wondered how to call for help if your phone is locked or showing no bars? This quick guide explains what to do, step by step, in everyday language.

Australia’s emergency number is 000 “triple zero”. If you only remember one thing from this page, remember that number.


Can I call for help without unlocking my phone?

Yes. On both iPhone and Android you can place an emergency call from the lock screen. Tap the Emergency option and dial 000. You do not need your passcode or Face ID to dial.


What if my phone shows no bars?

Your phone will try to place the emergency call on any available Australian network. That means if your own provider has no coverage in that spot but another network does, the call should still go through.


If there is no coverage from any mobile network at all, a normal voice call to 000 cannot connect. Try these options instead if they are available to you:

  • Wi‑Fi Calling to 000 on supported phones and providers when you have Wi‑Fi access.

  • Emergency SOS via satellite on supported devices (for example, iPhone 14 or newer in Australia). Your phone will guide you to point at a satellite and send an emergency message with your location.

  • Use a landline or a payphone. Calls to 000 are free.


A two‑minute readiness check

  1. Turn on VoLTE (also called 4G Calling) in your mobile settings.

  2. Turn on Wi‑Fi Calling and test it with a normal call while you’re at home or work.

  3. Add emergency contacts in the Health app on iPhone or Personal Safety on Android.

  4. Install the free Emergency+ app so you can read your GPS location to the operator.

  5. If you’re travelling remote, consider a backup such as a Personal Locator Beacon or a satellite‑enabled phone.


How to make the call calmly

  1. Dial 000 and say which service you need: Police, Fire or Ambulance.

  2. Give your location right away. A nearby landmark or your GPS coordinates help a lot.

  3. Answer questions, follow instructions and stay on the line until told to hang up.


Common myths, cleared up

“Emergency calls work anywhere.” They still need a connection of some kind: a mobile network, supported Wi‑Fi Calling or satellite SOS on supported devices.

“I have no prepaid credit so I can’t call.” Calls to 000 are free.

“I must unlock my phone first.” You can start the call from the lock screen.


E.Tel quick help

Not sure if your phone supports VoLTE or Wi‑Fi Calling? Our team can check and help you turn it on. Save E.Tel Support 1300 383 588 in your contacts so you can reach us if you’re setting up a new phone.

Stay safe, and remember: in an emergency, try 000 first.

 
 
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