AusAlert is Australia’s new national warning system. It uses the latest technology to send emergency messages to compatible mobile devices during local and national disasters. AusAlert is a fast and reliable way to help keep communities informed and better prepared so they can take action during emergencies, saving lives and property. It’s another way we’re helping to keep Australians safer.

Before AusAlert is ready to use in October 2026, we’re testing the system across Australia to make sure it works as intended. 

Community testing

In June, we tested the AusAlert system with localised trials in the following communities:    

• Duffy, ACT
• Launceston, TAS  
• Coastal townships (Cooya Beach, Newell Beach and Wonga Beach), QLD  
• Liverpool, NSW  
• Tennant Creek, NT  
• Geelong, VIC
• Goomalling, WA
• Port Lincoln, SA  
• Queanbeyan, NSW/ACT border.  

Priority Alerts were sent to compatible mobile devices in some areas of these test locations.

National test – Monday 27 July 2026  

In July, we’ll be testing the AusAlert system nationally.  

A test alert will be sent to every compatible mobile device in Australia at the same time on Monday 27 July 2026. This will happen at about 2:00 pm AEST (1:30 pm ACST/12:00 pm AWST).  

The national test will be a Critical Alert. Your mobile device will vibrate and make a loud siren-like warning sound that lasts about 10 seconds. You can’t opt out of receiving a Critical Alert and it will make this sound even if your device is set to ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’.

If receiving the AusAlert national test will disrupt you or cause you or someone you know to feel unsafe, turn your mobile devices off or switch them to ‘aeroplane mode’ before the scheduled test time in your location and leave them off for at least one hour.  

Read more about Critical Alerts and the national test.

Find more information and resources at ausalert.gov.au.