Health & Wellness - Australia Student & Expat Resource Hub

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1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Study
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Work
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Living in Australia
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Travel
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Visa & Immigration
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Parents Hub
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.
Student Hub
1. The 2026 "AusAlert" System

As of 2026, Australia has rolled out AusAlert, a national cell-broadcast system.
- What it does: If there is a life-threatening disaster (like a flash flood or bushfire) in your immediate area, your phone will emit a loud, distinctive siren and display an alert—even if it is on Silent or Do Not Disturb.
- What to do: Do not ignore it. Read the instructions on the screen immediately; they will tell you whether to evacuate, seek shelter, or stay indoors.
2. Calling 000: The Step-by-Step Process

If you are the one reporting an emergency, follow this specific 2026 protocol:

Step A: The Connection

Dial 000. You will hear a recorded message: "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." ### Step B: The Telstra Operator A Telstra operator will ask: "Emergency. Police, Fire, or Ambulance?"
- State the service you need clearly.
- They may also ask for your State and Suburb to route the call to the correct local dispatch.
Step C: The Dispatcher Questions

Once connected to the specific service (e.g., Ambulance), stay calm and answer these four critical questions:
1. "Where is the emergency?" (Give the street name, number, and nearest cross-street).
2. "What is the phone number you are calling from?"
3. "Tell me exactly what happened."
4. "Is the person conscious and breathing?"
3. Use Tech if You Are Lost

In 2026, you don't need to know your address to get help.
- Emergency+ App: If you call 000 through this app, it displays your latitude, longitude, and your what3words address (e.g., filled.count.cloud). Read these to the operator so they can find you in a park, beach, or hiking trail.
- GPS Auto-Locate: Modern Australian networks automatically send your approximate "Estimated Location" to the operator, but verbally confirming your location is always faster.
4. The "Silent 55" Protocol

If you are in a situation where it is unsafe to speak (e.g., a home intruder or dangerous person is nearby):
1. Dial 000.
2. If the operator hears no response, they will transfer you to an automated system.
3. Press "55" on your keypad.
4. This signals to the operator that you are in danger but cannot speak. The police will then attempt to track your location and send a patrol car.
5. Managing the Cost (OSHC)
- Ambulance Fees: In most Australian states, an ambulance ride can cost over $1,000.
- The Good News: Your mandatory OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) includes 100% emergency ambulance cover.
- Pro-Tip: If you receive a bill in the mail later, simply upload a photo of it to your OSHC provider’s app (Allianz, Medibank, etc.) to have it paid.
Emergency Readiness Checklist
- Download the Emergency+ app today.
- Save your OSHC policy number in your phone's "Medical ID" or "Notes."
- Program your university's 24/7 Security number as a favorite.
- Identify the nearest Hospital Emergency Department to your house.