Connecting to emergency services on iPhone in Australia
Staying connected to emergency services is essential, especially in a country as expansive and geographically diverse as Australia. iPhone is designed with multiple layers of connectivity to help users reach emergency services, even when traditional mobile coverage may be limited. In addition to standard mobile networks, iPhone supports Wi-Fi Calling and satellite services* to help ensure access when you need it the most. We encourage all iPhone users to keep their software up to date to take advantage of the latest connectivity features.
Learn more about Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone
Australian mobile network operators continue to improve support for emergency calling on their networks. This follows prior incidents, including a technical failure that prevented some older mobile phones from being able to make emergency calls (Triple Zero). This impacted some Australians in regional areas who attempted to make an emergency call when their primary mobile network was unavailable, even though an alternate network was available and should have connected the call. Mobile operators are taking steps to mitigate future issues.
In the rare event that these exceptional circumstances affecting mobile operators’ networks were to happen again, some older mobile phones may still encounter the same issue reaching emergency services through an alternate available network.
iPhone XS, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, and all iPhone models from iPhone 13 and newer are not affected. For iPhone 12 users, iOS 26.2 provides support for this scenario. If it is determined that any earlier iPhone models are impacted, customers will receive additional information and guidance directly from their mobile operator.
Updating iOS on iPhone
To check for and install software updates:
Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
Tap General, then tap Software Update. The currently installed version of iOS is shown, and whether an update is available.
If an update is available, tap Download and Install, then follow the onscreen instructions.
Learn more about updating iOS on iPhone, including how to set up automatic updates.
* Satellite features on iPhone: With iPhone 14 or later (all models), users can connect their iPhone to a satellite to text emergency services, request roadside assistance, and share their location when there is no mobile or Wi-Fi coverage. Learn more about how to connect to a satellite on iPhone.