AusAlert warning system test on Monday 27 July

You or someone you care for may receive a test alert.

What is AusAlert?

AusAlert sends emergency messages during local and national emergencies to compatible mobile devices like:

• mobile phones
• tablets
• smartwatches.

If you don’t have a mobile device but have a landline, you may receive an AusAlert with spoken instructions.

What is the test for?

AusAlert will be ready to use in October 2026, but before it launches, the system needs to be tested across Australia.

What should I expect?

At the time of the test, a Critical AusAlert test will be sent to every compatible mobile device in Australia.

Devices will vibrate and play a siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds. Some alerts may sound even if a device is set to silent or do-not-disturb mode.

An AusAlert message will appear on device screens. It will clearly say it is a test.

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

What do I do if I receive a test alert?

You don’t need to do anything.

It's just a test.

But in an actual disaster, an AusAlert will likely tell you:

• type of emergency
• where it’s located
• how serious it is
• what to do
• the name of the emergency organisation that has sent the AusAlert
• where to find more information about the emergency.

What do I do if I don’t receive a test alert?

You don't need to do anything.

It's just a test.

There are many reasons why you might not receive a test alert.

Finding out how devices behave is one of the reasons why the government is testing the AusAlert system before it launches.

More information

Find out more about the AusAlert test.

Or read about the AusAlert national warning system.