What is VoWiFi?

Something else you might have heard of that’s similar to VoLTE is VoWiFi, which stands for Voice over WiFi. Like VoLTE, VoWiFi transmits your voice calls using data, except unlike 4G VoLTE, it uses the WiFi network you’re connected to. This can be a huge help if you’re in an area without good reception like a black spot and need to make a call – just make sure that the WiFi network you’re connected to has a good signal.

Can I call emergency 000 using WiFi calling?

Yes, emergency triple zero calls are supported over WiFi Calling if there is no mobile network coverage available to make the call.

Your mobile device is defaulted to use the Optus mobile network in the first instance when making emergency triple zero calls. If Optus mobile coverage is insufficient to make the call your device will then automatically search for other mobile carrier networks to try to make the call. Making emergency triple zero calls over a mobile network is automatically preferred as this provides more of your location details to your chosen emergency service.

If no mobile networks can be found to carry the call your device will then attempt to make the call using WiFi Calling if you have WiFi coverage and are using a WiFi Calling compatible device with the latest software.

Please be advised that currently there are some limitations when making emergency triple zero calls using WiFi calling:

  • Customers need to have a compatible device with the latest software build that supports emergency triple zero calling over WiFi. Please see the list of compatible devices on this page. Don't forget to download the Emergency+ App - a free app developed by the government that uses GPS functionality to help Triple Zero callers provide critical location details to emergency services.
  • When making emergency triple zero calls using WiFi Calling, your location information may not be automatically provided to emergency services. Emergency services will ask for your location when they answer your 000 call.
  • The WiFi Calling service will not be able to receive National Emergency Warning System (NEWS) SMS warnings.