What is 101?

The 101 number is the non-emergency contact line for the Police. It’s the number to call if you need to speak or report an issue to the Police that doesn’t require an urgent response.

Understanding when to call 101 instead of 999 helps ensure that emergency resources are available for those who need them most.

Whether you need to report a crime, seek advice, or provide information, 101 is the number to call for issues that do not pose an immediate threat to life or property.

Calls to 101 are handled 24/7, ensuring that your concerns are addressed at any time, day or night.

When should you call 101?

You should call 101 to:

• Report a crime that has already happened, such as a stolen car, property damage, or a burglary where the offenders are no longer on the scene.
• Provide information or intelligence about criminal activity in your area, including suspicious behaviour or suspected criminal activity.
• Report a missing person who you believe may not be in immediate danger.
• Get updates or follow-up information about a previously reported crime.
• Seek advice on matters such as home security, local policing issues, or other non-urgent inquiries.
• Reporting minor traffic collisions that do not involve injuries or block the road.

When not to call 101:

• If someone is in immediate danger, a crime is in progress, or you need urgent assistance call 999.
• For issues not related to policing- such as local council concerns (noise complaints, fly tipping, environmental concerns, public property management, parking violations, housing and property issues and public transport issues) utility problems, or health emergencies- contact the appropriate service directly.

What to expect when calling 101

• Your call will be answered by a trained operator who will ask for details about your situation. They’ll ask for information such as your location, the nature of the incident, and any descriptions of people or vehicles involved.
• Depending on the information you provide, the operator will determine the appropriate response. This may include dispatching an officer to your location, giving you advice, or recording the details for further investigation.

Hearing or speech impairments

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service on 18001 101.

For 999 emergencies you can use our textphone service 18000 or text us on 999.

Response time

Non-emergency calls are prioritised based on and the availability of police resources.

Each call received is assessed on THRIVE – Threat, Harm, Risk, Investigative opportunity, Vulnerability and Engagement and resources are allocated accordingly.

Rest assured; your report will be handled as quickly as possible.

If you’re ever unsure which number to call, remember: if it’s not an emergency, dial 101.