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The National Emergency Management Agency is preparing to introduce AusAlert, a new national warning system designed to send emergency messages directly to compatible mobile devices during local, state and national emergencies.
Using modern mobile alerting technology, AusAlert is designed to provide a fast, reliable way to deliver critical emergency information to communities.
The system aims to help people stay informed, make timely decisions and take action to protect themselves and others during emergencies. It is also designed to continue operating effectively during periods of network congestion and to reach more people with important warning information.
Before the system becomes operational in October 2026, a national test will be conducted to ensure it performs as expected across a wide range of devices and network conditions.
Using modern mobile alerting technology, AusAlert is designed to provide a fast, reliable way to deliver critical emergency information to communities.
The system aims to help people stay informed, make timely decisions and take action to protect themselves and others during emergencies. It is also designed to continue operating effectively during periods of network congestion and to reach more people with important warning information.
Before the system becomes operational in October 2026, a national test will be conducted to ensure it performs as expected across a wide range of devices and network conditions.
National test details
A nationwide AusAlert test is scheduled for 2:00 pm AEST on Monday 27 July.
During the test, a single Critical AusAlert message will be sent across Australia. Compatible mobile devices, including mobile phones, tablets and smart watches, may receive the alert.
During the test, a single Critical AusAlert message will be sent across Australia. Compatible mobile devices, including mobile phones, tablets and smart watches, may receive the alert.
When the test is delivered, devices may:
- Vibrate.
- Emit a loud, siren-like warning sound for approximately 10 seconds.
- Display an AusAlert message on the screen clearly identifying the alert as a test.
The way the alert appears may vary depending on the device model and operating system.
What you need to do
No action is required when the test message is received.
The alert is part of planned testing to confirm the system is working as intended before its national rollout. However, during a real emergency, people should carefully read and follow the instructions included in any AusAlert warning message.
Advice for people concerned about the test
The test alert may be disruptive in some settings and could cause concern for some individuals.
People who believe the test may affect them or a loved one are encouraged to turn off their mobile devices, or place them in aeroplane mode, before the scheduled test time. Devices should remain off or in aeroplane mode for at least one hour after the test begins.
Getting your device ready
Getting your device ready
To help ensure devices can receive future AusAlert messages, users should keep their devices updated with the latest available software and restart them after completing updates.
Once operational, AusAlert will form part of Australia's emergency warning arrangements, providing authorities with an additional tool to deliver timely public safety information when it matters most.
Learn more: https://www.ausalert.gov.au
Learn more: https://www.ausalert.gov.au
