When should I call 000 about crime in Australia?

Call 000 when there is immediate danger, a serious injury or a crime happening now that needs urgent police, fire or ambulance help. Use the relevant police service's non-urgent reporting option when no one needs an immediate response.

How do I report non-urgent crime in Australia?

Contact the police reporting service for the state or territory where the incident occurred. Give clear facts, preserve useful records and keep the report reference number.

What is Crime Stoppers in Australia?

Crime Stoppers is a channel for providing information about suspected criminal activity, including information that may assist police. It is not a substitute for calling 000 during an emergency.

What should a victim preserve after a crime in Australia?

Keep relevant messages, photographs, receipts, transaction records and a written account of what happened. Preserve originals where possible, but never risk personal safety merely to collect evidence.

Crime in Australia

Crime in Australia includes offences against people, property, businesses and the wider community. Police, courts and support services have different roles in prevention, investigation, justice and victim assistance. Everyday awareness, secure habits and prompt reporting can reduce risk and help others.

Tip

If you face immediate danger in Australia, move to a safer place if possible and call 000. For a non-urgent incident, write down what happened, protect useful records and contact the appropriate police reporting service. Seek medical, emotional or legal support when the event affects your safety or wellbeing.

byAva&Henry

Crime in Australia covers conduct prohibited by criminal law. It includes offences such as assault, sexual violence, family and domestic violence, theft, burglary, robbery, property damage, fraud, cybercrime and illegal drug activity. Most criminal law and everyday policing are organised by Australia's states and territories. Federal agencies deal with certain national or cross-border matters, while courts decide cases according to the law that applies. Police respond to emergencies, receive reports, investigate suspected offences and collect evidence. They may also provide safety advice, arrange protection in urgent situations and refer affected people to specialist services. An emergency is a situation involving immediate danger, serious injury or a crime happening now. In Australia, the emergency number is 000 for police, fire or ambulance, while non-urgent matters should use the reporting channel provided by the relevant police service. Property crime may involve stolen belongings, vehicle theft, shop theft, burglary or damage. Locking doors, protecting keys, recording valuable items and avoiding visible valuables can reduce opportunities without guaranteeing safety. Fraud and scams can happen by phone, message, email, social media, online marketplace or payment service. Warning signs include pressure to act quickly, unusual payment demands, secret instructions and requests for passwords or security codes. Violence and abuse may happen at home, in public, at work or online. Family and domestic violence can include physical harm, threats, stalking, coercive control, financial abuse and isolation, and the person experiencing it is not responsible for the offender's behaviour. After a report, police may assess immediate safety, record information, speak with witnesses and investigate available evidence. A report does not always lead to a charge or conviction, because legal decisions depend on evidence and the applicable process. Victims may seek medical care, counselling, legal information, protective measures and practical support. Available services differ across Australia, but urgent safety and health needs should come before replacing property or collecting evidence.