When something goes wrong, it’s important to know which number to dial.
Police Link (131 444) or Triple Zero (000)
Both connect you to help, but they serve very different purposes.
A retired Queensland Police Chief Inspector reported in a radio interview that he had received triple zero calls because someone’s pizza delivery didn’t arrive, or because someone saw a shivering cat in the rain and didn’t know what to do. The police chief helped listeners understand the importance and the difference between the two.
Triple Zero (000) is for emergencies only. Situations where lives are at risk or a crime is happening right now. If there’s an intruder in your home, a serious car accident, or someone is in immediate danger, don’t hesitate: call 000 straight away.
Police Link (131 444) is for non-urgent matters.
This includes crimes that have already happened, such as a stolen car, a break and enter, or property damage. Police Link is also the right place to report nuisance issues that don’t need an emergency response; like a pizza that never arrived, or even a shivering animal you’re concerned about.
The golden rule:
• If it’s happening now and there’s danger — call 000.
• If it’s already happened or not life-threatening — call Police Link.
Knowing the difference helps emergency services respond quickly where they’re needed most.