Emergency and Crisis Support in Queensland

A safety net for Kenyans and new arrivals

Moving to a new country is an adventure, but it can also bring moments of uncertainty. Whether it’s a sudden illness, a housing dispute, or a mental health struggle, knowing exactly who to call can stop a problem from becoming a disaster.

This guide outlines the critical free and confidential support services available to you in Queensland.

⚠️ Immediate Danger

If you or someone else is in immediate danger (life-threatening situation, crime in progress, or fire):

• Call 000 (Triple Zero)

• Ask for: Police, Fire, or Ambulance.

• Note: If you are on a mobile phone and have no service/signal from your provider, try dialling 112.

Does language feel like a barrier? If you need an interpreter during a crisis call, tell the operator immediately: "Interpreter. Swahili." (or your preferred language). They will connect you to the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) for free.

1. Mental Health & Emotional Crisis

Adjusting to life in Australia is stressful. You do not have to carry the burden alone.

• Lifeline

  • 📞 13 11 14 (24/7)

  • Best for: Immediate crisis support when you feel you can't cope.

• 1300 MH CALL (Queensland Health)

  • 📞 1300 642 255 (24/7)

  • Best for: This is a dedicated QLD government line that connects you directly to public mental health services and triage.

• Beyond Blue

  • 📞 1300 22 4636

  • Best for: Support for anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.

2. Domestic & Family Violence

In Queensland, support is available for both women and men. These services can help with emergency accommodation and safety planning.

• DVConnect Womensline (QLD)

  • 📞 1800 811 811 (24/7)

  • Services: Emergency transport, safety planning, and refuge for women and children.

• DVConnect Mensline (QLD)

  • 📞 1800 600 636 (9am – Midnight, 7 days)

  • Services: Confidential counselling and support for men.

• 1800 RESPECT (National)

  • 📞 1800 737 732 (24/7)

  • Services: National sexual assault and domestic violence counselling.

3. Housing & Tenancy Crisis (Crucial)

Housing issues are a major source of stress for new arrivals. If you are facing eviction or homelessness, use these numbers.

• Homeless Hotline (QLD)

  • 📞 1800 474 753 (24/7)

  • Best for: If you have nowhere to sleep tonight. They refer you to crisis accommodation.

• QSTARS (Tenancy Advice)

  • 📞 1300 744 263

  • Best for: Free legal advice if your landlord is trying to evict you unfairly or keep your bond. Do not move out without calling them first.

4. Medical Help (Non-Emergency)

If you are sick but it’s not life-threatening (e.g., fever, suspicious rash, sick child at night):

• 13 HEALTH

  • 📞 13 43 25 84 (24/7)

  • Service: Speak to a Registered Nurse for free. They will tell you if you need to go to a hospital or if you can see a GP in the morning.

5. Legal & Police (Non-Emergency)

Policelink

• 📞 131 444

• Best for: Reporting a crime that has already happened (e.g., your car was broken into overnight) or property loss.

Legal Aid Queensland

• 📞 1300 65 11 88

• Best for: Free legal information if you are facing criminal charges or serious civil disputes.

6. Kenyan Consular Support

For serious issues involving passports, immigration detention, or the death of a Kenyan national in Australia.

• Kenya High Commission (Canberra)

  • 📞 +61 2 6290 7100 (Office Hours)

  • 📞 +61 477 694 068 (Emergency Consular Mobile - for genuine emergencies only)

  • Website: kenya.asn.au

Important Things to Remember

1. Visa Status: Seeking help for health, mental health, or domestic violence does not automatically cancel your visa.

2. Police Culture: Australian police generally do not accept bribes. Offering one is a serious crime.

3. Ambulances: In Queensland, ambulance cover is free for QLD residents. If you are a student/visitor, check your OSHC or travel insurance, as a ride can cost $1,000+.

Save these numbers in your phone now. You may never need them, but you will be glad you have them if you do.