Accessible help & language support
Emergency relay options and preparation resources for different access needs.
Emergency calls without a standard voice call
Emergency Relay Service / National Relay Service (NRS)
106 — TTY/TDD onlyAccessible emergency-call pathways for people who are d/Deaf or have hearing or speech difficulty. Use 106 from a TTY/TDD; it is not a general text-message number.
Hours: NRS is available 24/7 except Video Relay; Video Relay hours are limited.
Important: Video Relay is not recommended for emergency calls: it cannot be identified/prioritised as emergency and operates only limited hours. Internet/mobile-based relay may be less reliable than 106 and may not identify caller/location. For a TTY, dial 106 first.
Do not text 106 from an ordinary mobile phone. The 106 number is for TTY/TDD. The official AccessHub page explains current NRS Chat, SMS Relay, NRS Captions, Voice Relay and TTY pathways, including registration and service limitations. Check and practise the appropriate pathway before an emergency.
Video Relay is not recommended for emergencies: operating hours are limited and emergency calls cannot be identified and prioritised in the same way. Some internet/mobile relay pathways may not identify your location; be ready to supply it.
Tailor your preparation
NSW SES accessibility resources
Flood/storm/tsunami planning resources for low/no hearing or vision, disability/mobility, intellectual disability, mental health conditions, carers and Easy Read; includes Auslan and NRS information.
Important: Create a tailored plan and support network before an emergency; plan backup power/transport for life-sustaining and mobility equipment.
Include transport, communication, medicines, carers, assistance animals and backup power for essential equipment in your own plan. Use the linked specialist resources rather than treating this page as a complete accessibility plan.
Interpreting for support services
Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) pathway for NSW mental-health support
131 450Interpreter connection pathway: ask TIS to ring NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511.
Important: For immediate danger, call 000 rather than waiting for a support connection.
The listed TIS pathway is verified for the NSW Mental Health Line. Other services may have their own interpreter arrangements and eligibility. For immediate danger, call 000 rather than waiting for an advice-line connection.