Media release - Triple zero network failure

Melissa McIntosh MP 
Shadow Minister for Communications 
Shadow Minister for Women 
Federal Member for Lindsay

19 September 2025 

Triple zero network failure

Tonight, Optus has confirmed a network upgrade in Western Australia, South Australia and the Northern Territory has impacted the triple zero network.

Tragically, three people have lost their lives during this period.

Shadow Communications Minister Melissa McIntosh said the families of the three people who have passed away must be the top priority right now, however it is deeply concerning that the triple zero camp-on arrangements that divert triple zero calls to other carriers like Telstra had also failed.

The emergency camp-on arrangements allow triple zero calls to be made even if one phone carrier has no network coverage in the area, by using another mobile network's services instead.

"My heart goes out to the families and loved ones who have tragically passed away,” Shadow Minister for Communications Melissa McIntosh said. 

“Whilst Optus is still undertaking an investigation as to how this occurred, I am very concerned the emergency camp-on arrangements that should have been in place also failed."

“There must be a full and thorough investigation into this incident, to establish how and why and most importantly – ensure this never happens again."