Millions of phones across Australia are set to go off at once today, as the federal government tests its new national emergency warning system, AusAlert.
It’s a first look at the system ahead of its official rollout later this year and while most people will just hear a loud siren and move on, there are some important details to know, especially for anyone experiencing domestic violence and has the need for a secure or secret phone.
What is happening today?
AusAlert is a new nationwide alert system designed to send emergency warnings directly to people’s devices during serious events like bushfires, floods or other crises.
Before it launches on October, 1, 2026, the government is running a national test on Monday, July, 27 (today) to make sure it works across different devices and networks.
What time will the AusAlert test go off?
The alert will be sent at the same moment nationwide, but because of time zones, it will arrive at different local times:
- New South Wales — 2pm AEST
- Victoria — 2pm AEST
- Queensland — 2pm AEST
- Tasmania — 2pm AEST
- Australian Capital Territory — 2pm AEST
- South Australia — 1:30pm ACST
- Northern Territory — 1:30pm ACST
- Western Australia — 12pm AWST
What the alert will look and sound like
If your device is compatible, you’ll receive a message labelled “CRITICAL AUSALERT” with a note that it’s a test and no action is required.
Phones, tablets and some smartwatches will vibrate and play a loud, siren-like sound for around 10 seconds. Importantly, this is a “critical alert”, which means it will override silent mode and “do not disturb” settings.
As reported by the ABC, “The AusAlert test will override ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’ settings as it will be sent out as a ‘critical level’ alert.”
Some older devices may display different wording, such as “Presidential Alert” or “Extreme Threat Alert”.
Who will receive it?
The test is being sent to most mobile devices across Australia using cell-broadcast technology. That means it doesn’t rely on SMS and can still go through even if networks are congested.
You also don’t need an active SIM card to receive it, but you do need a compatible and updated device, plus a working connection to a mobile tower.
Some people may not receive the alert at all, and others might get it slightly earlier or later. Authorities have already flagged that devices may “behave differently” during the test.
Why this system matters
AusAlert was developed following recommendations from the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, which found mobile-based warnings are critical during emergencies.
If you’re thinking, ‘Didn’t we already have a text alert system’, you’d be absolutely right. But. unlike the current SMS-based Emergency Alert system, AusAlert can target specific areas more precisely and send messages to everyone in that location at the same time.
It’s expected to be used for natural disasters like bush fires and floods, health emergencies and major public safety threats. Similar systems are already in place in countries including the US, UK and Japan.
What this means for people in DV situations
While the system is designed for public safety, there are real concerns about how it could affect people with hidden or safe devices.
Because the alert cannot be silenced, it could unintentionally expose a concealed phone, tablet or smartwatch.
Support organisations are urging people to plan ahead if they think the alert could put them at risk.
The official guidance is straightforward:
- Turn your device off or switch it to aeroplane mode at least one hour before the test
- Keep it off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours after the alert
This is currently the only way to avoid receiving the notification.
For anyone needing support, services are available nationwide, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline (13 11 14) and the Women’s Crisis Line (1800 811 811). In an emergency, call Triple Zero.
Help is available.
If you require immediate assistance, please call 000.
If you’re in distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online.
Under 25? You can reach the Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
To speak to someone about domestic violence, including for help in leaving a violent relationship, please call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or chat online.
The post Australia’s AusAlert Test Is Happening Today. Here’s When Your Phone Will Go Off appeared first on PEDESTRIAN.TV .
