New South Wales is generally a safe place with low levels of crime, but it is still important to take care and look after yourself. This section explains how to contact emergency services and gives you tips on staying safe.
In an emergency dial 000 to contact the police, fire brigade or ambulance.
The call is free of charge from any phone or mobile.
NSW Police
The NSW Police Force is Australia's oldest and largest police organisation. NSW Police provides community based policing from more than 500 police stations to a wide range of ethnic communities speaking more than 30 languages.
Detective Superintendent Gavin Dengate is the NSW Police Force Corporate Spokesperson for the safety of International Students.
If you need to report a crime that is not an emergency, dial 131 444 for the Police Assistance Line, or ask someone in authority at your school, college or university to contact the local police station for you. You can also report a crime in person at your nearest police station.
Safety videos for international students
NSW Police in partnership with the Council of International Students Australia (CISA) completed a Study NSW co-funded Partner Project to create safety videos for international students studying in NSW. The videos are available in 9 languages: English, Thai, Japanese, Spanish, Hindi, Chinese, Korean, Arabic, and Vietnamese.
Crime Stoppers NSW
To provide crime information anonymously you can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
City of Sydney Safety Tips
City of Sydney Council worked with the NSW Police Service to put together personal safety tips in a variety of community languages to help you avoid crime and remain safe during your stay in Sydney and NSW.
Emergency+ App
Download Emergency+ a free app developed by Australia's emergency services and their Government and industry partners. The app helps you to call the right number at the right time anywhere in Australia in case of an emergency. Save the app that could save your life.
Ten tips for staying safe
1
Plan your travel
If you are planning a night
out, be sure to check the times of the last train, bus or ferry, or book a
taxi. Let someone know where you are going and what time you plan to return
home.
2
ATM safety
Be aware of others around
you when using ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines). Try not to use them at night
or in poorly lit areas, and always keep your PIN hidden.
3
Keep bags safe
Carry your bag close to you
with the clasp facing inwards. If someone grabs your bag, let it go – your
safety is more important. Report theft to the police.
4
Travelling at night
It is always best to travel with friends, but if you
do need to travel alone, let people know where you are going and sit close to
the driver or other passengers.
5
Carry a taxi number
Always take a taxi phone number
and some money, just in case your plans change unexpectedly.
6
Take a licensed taxi
If you are not sure how to
find a licensed taxi, ask at your school, college or university. Sit in the
back of the taxi, directly behind the driver if possible.
7
Conceal valuables
Keep items such as your
mobile phone and wallet out of sight.
8
Avoid confrontation
If you are being threatened
or hassled, it is safer to walk away.
9
Walking alone
Try to avoid walking alone
at night, but if you must:
Stick to well-lit, busy
streets where you feel safe, and walk confidently
Avoid listening to
headphones or talking on your mobile so you can stay fully focused on your
surroundings.
Avoid dark, isolated areas and
do not risk taking an unfamiliar shortcut.
Remember, cars drive on the
left in Australia, and take extra care when crossing the roads.
10
Drinking and drugs
Never accept drinks from
strangers or leave your drink unattended, to avoid the risk of your drink being
'spiked' with drugs or alcohol. If you are with someone who has had so much to
drink as to be unwell or pass out, have had their drink spiked or taken drugs,
get them to the nearest hospital or call 000 immediately.