Check safely first
Check whether another door or a spare key holder is available. Do not climb through windows or force a door — this often causes damage that costs more than the lockout.
If a child, vulnerable person or pet is locked inside and in danger, call 000 first.
If you rent or live in an apartment
Your property manager, landlord or building manager may hold a spare key. Strata buildings sometimes have rules about who can work on common-property doors.
What to tell the locksmith
Your address, the type of door (timber, security screen, aluminium shopfront), the lock brand if visible, and whether the key is lost, broken or inside.
Be ready to show identification and proof that you live at or are responsible for the property.
Afterwards
If keys were lost or stolen, consider rekeying so the old keys stop working.