What you need to know: AusAlert emergency warning test on Mon 27 July

Published on 09 July 2026

On Monday 27 July 2026 at 2pm, an AusAlert test message will be sent to all compatible mobile devices in Australia, including mobiles, tablets, smartwatches and children’s safety watches. There is no need to be concerned. This is simply a national test of Australia's new emergency warning system, which will begin operating from 1 October 2026.

This test will help ensure the system works across different mobile devices, networks and locations before it is introduced.

What is AusAlert?

AusAlert is Australia's new emergency warning system that allows government and emergency services organisations to send urgent warnings directly to compatible mobile devices during disasters and emergencies. It is a fast and reliable way to help communities be informed and better prepared during local and national emergencies.

When will it be used?

AusAlert may be used during events such as:

• Bushfires
• Floods
• Severe storms and cyclones
• Tsunamis
• Public health emergencies
• Biosecurity incidents
• Serious public safety or security events

Do I need to register for AusAlert?

You don't need to register or download an app. Compatible mobile devices located in an affected area will automatically receive alerts.

What does an AusAlert sound like?

A Critical Alert will cause your mobile device to vibrate and will be delivered with a loud siren-like warning sound that lasts about 10 seconds. It will make this noise even if you’ve set your device to 'silent' or 'do not disturb' mode. These alerts are used for the most serious emergencies. They can’t be opted out of.

A Priority Alert may vibrate and include a siren-like warning sound, but exactly how it is delivered will depend on your settings, device type and operating system. These alerts are used for emergencies where there is a heightened level of threat because conditions are changing. They can be opted out of in your mobile device settings.

What does an AusAlert look like?

An AusAlert Critical Alert may look like this

An AusAlert Priority Alert may look like this

What will happen on test day?

On Monday 27 July 2026 at 2pm, a Critical AusAlert test will be sent to compatible mobile devices across Australia.

If your device receives the test alert, you can expect:

• your device to vibrate
• a loud siren-like warning sound for around 10 seconds
• the alert to sound even if your phone is on silent or Do Not Disturb
• a message on your screen clearly stating that it is a test.
• It will appear as a notification on your mobile device’s screen and will show up during phone calls and app use, and on lock screens. You’ll need to close the notification once you’ve seen the message, otherwise it will remain on your screen.

Exactly how the alert appears may vary depending on your device and operating system.

Do I need to do anything?

No. The national test is simply to check the new system is working.

In a real emergency, an AusAlert would tell you:

• what the emergency is
• where it is occurring
• how serious it is
• what you should do
• where to find more information.

What if I don't receive the test alert?

There are many reasons why you may not receive the alert, including:

• your device isn't compatible
• your device software isn't up to date
• you don't have mobile coverage at the time
• your device is switched off or in aeroplane mode.

Not receiving the alert does not necessarily indicate a problem with the system. Different devices, software versions, mobile providers and network connections can all affect when, of if, a device receives the test alert.

AusAlerts are expected to work on iPhones 11 and up running iOS 26.4 or later, and Android phones and tablets running Android 12 or later. Always install the latest software updates on your device when asked so you’re ready to receive AusAlerts.

Can I opt out?

No. The national test is being sent as a Critical Alert, which cannot be turned off in your device settings. If receiving the alert may cause distress, threaten your safety or disrupt an important activity, the only way to avoid receiving it is to switch your mobile device off or place it in aeroplane mode before 2pm on Monday 27 July and leave it that way for at least one hour.

What if I'm driving?

If you receive the alert while driving, stay calm and do not touch your phone. The alert may sound for about 10 seconds. Only read the message when it is safe and legal to do so.

Will AusAlert replace Emergency Alert?

Yes. From 1 October 2026, AusAlert will replace Australia's existing SMS-based Emergency Alert system and become part of Australia's emergency warning arrangements.

Find out more

For more information about the national test and the new AusAlert system, visit the Australian Government's AusAlert website.