AusAlert Program 

AusAlert is a new national warning system allowing emergency services to send messages to compatible mobile devices during local and national disasters.

The Australian Government is launching AusAlert – a new national warning system that sends emergency messages to compatible mobile devices. It’s a fast and reliable way to help keep Australians informed so they can act quickly during disasters such as bushfires, severe weather and public health emergencies. Before AusAlert is ready to use in October 2026, we need to test the system locally and nationally.

AusAlert sends near-instant emergency messages to compatible mobile devices such as mobiles, tablets, smartwatches and children’s safety watches. This helps you get information quickly. 

AusAlerts use sound, vibration and on-screen messages to get your attention.

Alerts look and sound different from a standard text message (SMS). They can alert you even if your device is on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’.

Exactly how it appears will depend on your device type and operating system.

National test

The national test will take place on Monday 27 July 2026, between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm depending on your location. A test alert will be sent to all compatible mobile devices in Australia at the same time. This is during school hours in all states and territories.

You may have already received information from your school about AusAlert testing. 

Follow your school’s advice about phone and device use.

During the test:

• A message will appear on device screens.
• A loud alert will sound for about 10 seconds.
• You don’t need to do anything.

The alert will sound and appear even if a device is on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’.