How to report domestic and family violence

Urgent assistance required?

When to call Triple Zero (000)

• if a crime is happening now
• when a life is threatened
• when the event is time critical, e.g. incidents with severe blood loss.

Use Triple Zero (000) for emergency use only.

Every second counts during an emergency and time can mean the difference between life and death – that’s why it’s vital for people to use the Triple Zero (000) number properly.

What happens if you are speech or hearing impaired?

Triple Zero (000) can be accessed via the National Relay Service on 106.

What happens when you call Triple Zero (000)?

Stay focused, relevant, and on the line.

• When you dial Triple Zero (000), your call is connected to the Telstra Emergency Call Service centre
• Telstra operators will ask which service you require – Police (Queensland Police Service), Fire (Queensland Fire and Rescue Service) or Ambulance (Queensland Ambulance Service)
• You respond by advising the operator which of those services you require assistance from: Police? Fire? Ambulance?
• Your call will then be rapidly connected to the Emergency Service requested
• If you don't respond because you are unable to talk, your call will be forwarded to an automated system, where you will be asked to push ‘5 5’ on the telephone keypad if you still require assistance. Pushing ‘5 5’ directs the call to Police, who will assess the circumstances and decide on the most suitable response.

How do you contact police when it is not an emergency?

• Contact your closest Queensland Police District Communication Centre.
• Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 (24 hours seven days).

Examples where you may wish to contact police when it is not an emergency:

• asking a question or advice,
• reporting something which has happened in the past,
• wanting to speak with a particular police member or to be connected to a police station,
• making a complaint.

Taking place now?

Treat as an emergency – call Triple Zero (000) – ask for police/ambulance/fire

Immediate fear?

Treat as an emergency – call Triple Zero (000) – ask for police

What do police officers need to know when I call?

• your location or the location of the emergency
• is the location a double storey house? Ground floor rear unit?
• what is actually happening now?
• the whereabouts of the offender: are they still at the location?
• how many children, if any, are present and their whereabouts?
• does the offender possess any firearms or weapons at the premises that you are aware of?
• any alcohol or drugs involved?
• does any person have a medical or psychiatric history?
• is there an enforceable Domestic Violence Order in place?
• the relationship of the person/s, if known.