Telstra fixes issue which led to warning of triple-0 services in WA’s Great Southern Region

WA police warned triple-0 calls could have been affected after some Telstra mobile services were affected by a hardware issue, before it was fixed.

A hardware issue affecting Telstra mobile sites in southern Western Australia led police to issuing a warning that triple-0 calls could be affected.

Mobile services from Katanning to Esperance, roughly 460km, were affected for a couple of hours on Tuesday afternoon before Telstra resolved the issue.

But Telstra said any triple-0 call made from a mobile during that time would have automatically been connected to emergency services via another carrier.

“A hardware issue that was affecting some of our mobile sites in and around Katanning, WA has been fixed,” a Telstra spokesperson said.

“We thank customers for their patience while we worked as quickly as possible to restore services.

Region affected by potential Triple-0 issue, according to WA Police. Picture: Google Maps

“While we worked to fix the issue today, any calls to triple-0 from a Telstra mobile would have been automatically diverted for connection to emergency services if there is another available mobile network in the area or if they have wi-fi from a fixed service.”

Landline services and NBN internet services weren’t impacted.

WA Police earlier released a statement urging anyone who needed to call emergency services to be aware.

“Calls to triple-0 Zero (000) on the Telstra network will automatically leverage alternative carriers if available. NBN and fixed line services are operating normally,” WA Police said.

“It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and check on vulnerable neighbours if possible.

“If you have a satellite phone, ensure it is with you at all times.”