Non-emergency calls to Triple Zero (000) are hampering efforts by call centre operators to deal with genuine life threatening emergencies.

In just two days, call centre operators in the Territory’s emergency call centre in Darwin received 140 non-emergency calls, unnecessarily tying up resources. 

“It’s concerning because someone’s life could hang in the balance if there’s delays in answering an emergency call because Triple Zero phone lines are busy with non-urgent inquiries.” Senior Sergeant Kerry Legg of the Territory Communications Section said. 

“It’s frustrating for call centre staff who take calls on the Triple Zero line from people wanting to use Police as a taxi service, through to people losing mobile phones.” 

“It’s timely to remind people that the Triple Zero number is for life threatening emergencies. For genuine Police assistance, the correct number to ring is 131 444.” Snr Sgt Legg said.