Although Australia is a safe country, we are still at risk from weapons attacks, particularly in crowded places.
In the unlikely event that you are confronted by an attacker armed with a gun, knife or other weapon, being prepared and knowing how to respond can save lives.
The safety advice centres on three simple words that are easy to remember and act on in a moment of crisis:
ESCAPE. HIDE. TELL.
ESCAPE — move away from danger as quickly and quietly as possible and encourage others to do the same, but only if it's safe to do so.
HIDE — stay out of sight and silence your mobile phone.
TELL — call Emergency Services on Triple Zero (000) when it is safe.
All situations are different. You will need to make quick decisions during an attack and be prepared to change your plan. Remembering ESCAPE. HIDE. TELL. will help you decide what to do.
The materials have been updated to reach all Australians, including culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, First Nations people and people living with disability along with their carers. The enhancements include translations in multiple languages and animated videos to improve understanding and recall.
Research shows that while many people instinctively know to move away from danger, fewer are aware of other critical actions, such as silencing their phone or calling Triple Zero (000) when safe. Exposure to Escape. Hide. Tell. messaging can significantly improve awareness and ensure people remember the steps they can take to protect themselves and those around them.
The updated Escape. Hide. Tell. materials were introduced at the Australia-New Zealand Counter-Terrorism Committee Business Advisory Group Forum, which includes operators of major crowded places such as shopping centres, stadiums, transport hubs and universities. These organisations are being encouraged to incorporate the materials into their emergency procedures and staff training.
This advice is being provided so the public is prepared if there is an incident, not because one is expected. Preparedness is not about creating alarm. It is about ensuring people have confidence in their ability to respond if something goes wrong.
If you see something suspicious or are concerned someone may be a threat to the community, please contact the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.
If you are in immediate danger, please call Triple Zero (000) to speak with emergency services.