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If your phone suddenly vibrates, emits a loud siren-like warning and displays an emergency alert on Monday afternoon, don't be alarmed. Australia will be testing AusAlert, a new national emergency warning system designed to send urgent alerts directly to compatible mobile devices during disasters and other major emergencies.
What is AusAlert?
AusAlert is Australia's new national emergency warning system. Using cell broadcast technology, it can send emergency alerts directly to compatible mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches in affected areas during events such as bushfires, floods, severe storms and other major emergencies. The system is expected to begin operating nationally from October 2026.
What to expect on Monday
At 2 pm on Monday, 27 July, a test Critical Alert will be sent to compatible devices across Victoria as part of a nationwide trial.
Your device will:
- vibrate
- play a loud siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds
- display a message confirming it is only a test and that no action is required.
The alert will sound even if your device is set to silent or Do Not Disturb.
What if I don't want to receive the test?
Critical Alerts cannot be turned off. If receiving the test could disrupt you or put you or someone else at risk—for example, if you rely on a hidden phone for personal safety—the Australian Government advises turning the device off or switching it to aeroplane mode before the scheduled test and leaving it off for at least one hour.
Why is the test important?
The national test will help ensure the new warning system works as intended before it is officially introduced later this year. In a real emergency, AusAlert will provide information about the type of emergency, where it is occurring, how serious it is and what action people should take to stay safe.
