Although Australia is a safe country, attacks in crowded places could happen and we need to do what we can both to prevent and prepare for them.

In the unlikely event you face an attacker armed with a gun, knife or similar weapon, it is important to be prepared to react quickly.

You need to remember three words:

ESCAPE. HIDE. TELL.

ESCAPE – move away from danger as quickly and quietly as possible and encourage others to do the same, but only if it's safe to do so.

HIDE – stay out of sight and silence your mobile phone.

TELL – call Emergency Services on Triple Zero (000) when it is safe.

All situations are different. You will need to make quick decisions during an attack and be prepared to change your plan. Remembering ESCAPE. HIDE. TELL. will help you decide what to do. We are providing this advice, so you are prepared if there is an incident, not because we are expecting one.

You can report suspicious behaviour anonymously via the National Security Hotline by calling 1800 123 400.

Life-threatening situations should be reported to the police by calling Triple Zero (000).