In October, AusAlert will become a key part of Australia’s public emergency warning ecosystem.
To be sure AusAlert works at scale, and as it is intended, we’ve tested it across the country.
On Monday 27 July, we successfully completed a national test of the AusAlert system. A test Critical Alert was sent to every compatible mobile device in Australia.
94% of mobile cells in Australia successfully broadcast the test alert – this was above our target for the national test.
During the national test there were:
- no reported incidents of public safety concern attributed to the test
- no material changes in driver behaviour observed
- no material increases in calls to Triple Zero.
These are preliminary results. We'll continue to work with our partners to review the results from the national test as they become available and consider any findings as part of preparations for the system's launch in October.
If you didn’t receive a test alert, this does not mean the test was unsuccessful. Your device might not be compatible with AusAlert, or your devices may not have the latest software update. It is also possible your mobile device was not connected to a mobile network at the time of the test. If you want to give feedback, you can fill in the form on the AusAlert website.
In June, we successfully tested Priority Alerts in nine communities, including at least one location in each state and territory.
Testing is now complete and AusAlert will be ready to use from October this year.
If they choose to, state and territory emergency services organisations will be able to use AusAlert to send fast, clear messages to the public about local and regional emergencies. Some states and territories may opt to use both AusAlert and the existing SMS-based system, Emergency Alert, while they become accustomed to the new technology, before completing the transition by July next year.
The Australian Government can also use AusAlert to send messages to the public about national emergencies.
