Published on Thursday, 9 July 2026 at 4:35:57 PM
We encourage our residents to prepare for the national test of AusAlert, Australia’s new emergency warning system, on Monday 27 July 2026.
The national test is expected at 12pm AWST. At the time of the test, compatible mobile phones and some other connected devices across Australia are expected to receive a Critical AusAlert test message.
The alert will appear on device screens and clearly state that it is a test. Devices should vibrate and play a loud, siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. No action is required when the test alert is received.
The test is part of the Australian Government’s preparation for the launch of AusAlert in October 2026. Once operational, AusAlert will help emergency organisations send important information to people in areas affected by emergencies such as bushfires, floods, cyclones, biosecurity incidents, public health emergencies and other safety risks.
What you can expect on the day
The AusAlert test will be delivered at 12pm AWEST with a loud, siren-like warning sound and vibration that lasts around 10 seconds and will play even if a device is set to silent or Do Not Disturb mode.
Because the sound may be unexpected or alarming, residents are encouraged to speak with children, older family members, people living with anxiety, neurodiverse community members, and others who may find emergency-style alerts distressing before the test takes place.
If you or someone you know has a safe phone and if receiving an alert could put your safety at risk, consider turning your device off or switching it to aeroplane mode before the test and keeping it that way for up to 24 hours afterwards.
Anyone concerned about receiving the alert can switch their device off or place it in aeroplane mode before the test and leave it off for at least one hour.
What if I don’t receive the test alert?
Not all devices are compatible with the new system, and your device may not receive the alert if it is not connected to a mobile network at the time of the test. No action is required if you don't receive the notification.
However, if you would like to provide feedback, you can submit a report through the AusAlert website using the ‘I didn't receive a test alert’ form.
How to get ready
To make sure your device is AusAlert ready, install the latest software updates when prompted and restart your device after updating.
If you receive the test alert, you do not need to do anything. It is only a test. In a real emergency, an AusAlert would tell you what is happening, where the emergency is, how serious it is, what to do, which emergency organisation sent the alert, and where to find more information.
For more information, visit www.ausalert.gov.au or download the A4 flyer.
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