New National Emergency Alert System
AusAlert is Launching 1 October 2026
Australia is introducing a new emergency warning system called AusAlert, designed to help keep communities informed and safe during emergencies and disasters.
From 1 October 2026, AusAlert will become an important part of Australia's emergency warning framework, using the latest cell broadcast technology to send emergency alerts directly to compatible mobile phones and devices in affected areas.
Unlike traditional messaging systems, AusAlert can quickly deliver warnings to large numbers of people within a specific location, helping ensure critical information reaches those who may be at risk.
What Types of Emergencies Will Trigger an AusAlert?
AusAlert may be used during a range of emergencies, including:
Natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, cyclones and tsunamis
Public health emergencies
Biosecurity incidents
Security threats
Importantly, alerts are designed to be received only by people located near the affected area.
Understanding the Two Alert Levels
AusAlert includes two types of emergency notifications:
Critical Alert
This is the highest level of warning and is reserved for the most serious emergencies.
A Critical Alert will:
Play a loud siren
Vibrate for 10 seconds
Override silent and "Do Not Disturb" settings
Be unable to be switched off or opted out of
Priority Alert
Priority Alerts provide important emergency information while respecting a device's settings.
A Priority Alert:
Follows the device's audio settings
May play a siren and vibrate for 10 seconds
Can be opted out of (although this is not recommended)
National Test Alert – Save the Date
To ensure the system is ready for nationwide use, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) will conduct a national public test of the AusAlert Critical Alert system on Monday, 27 July 2026 at 2:00pm AEST.
During the test, a notification will be sent to mobile phones and compatible devices across Australia. Recipients can expect to hear the alert tone and experience vibration, similar to how a real Critical Alert would operate.
What You Need to Do
There is no action required before the test. However, staff and residents should be aware that the national test alert will occur on 27 July and should not be alarmed when they receive the message.
AusAlert represents a significant step forward in emergency communications, helping ensure Australians receive timely warnings and critical information when it matters most.