26/07/2026
COMMUNITY NOTICE - AUSALERT NATIONAL TESTNo action is required
WHEN: Monday 27 July 2026
TIME: 2:00 pm (AEST – UTC+10:00)
ALERT: via your device is a test only
Australia's new NATIONAL MESSAGING SYSTEM for use during emergencies, AusAlert, will be tested across the country on Monday 27 July 2026.
The test will help emergency services better understand how different devices and networks respond in real-world conditions.
In New South Wales, the national test will occur at 2:00 pm and will help ensure the system is ready for future use.
AusAlert is designed to send emergency messages directly to compatible mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches during emergencies.
The national test will use a Critical Alert, allowing people to experience what an AusAlert will look and sound like on their device.
During the test window, compatible devices may:
> display a test alert message on screen
> vibrate or emit a loud siren-like warning sound, even if the device is set to ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’
> receive the alert at any time between 2:00 pm and 2:15 pm AEST, depending on the device, network, and location
> receive the alert on both government-issued and personal devices.
The alert will clearly state that it is a test. No action is required, and you should continue with normal activities after reading the message.
Importantly, you can still receive AusAlert messages if your phone is on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’.
If you, or someone you know, is concerned about receiving a Critical Alert, follow these steps:
> one hour before the test: turn off your mobile device or put it in flight/aeroplane mode
> during and after the test: keep your device off or in flight/aeroplane mode for 24 hours.
A device that is switched off or in flight/aeroplane mode will not receive AusAlert messages.
BEING PREPARED
You can help reduce confusion and support community preparedness before the AusAlert national test. You can:
> share this information with contractors, clients, and volunteers before the test on Monday 27 July 2026
> remind your colleagues on the morning of the test remember that devices may sound unexpectedly during the test period
> not handle or check mobile devices while driving, including when operating government vehicles
> be ready to reassure members of the public that any alert received during the test window is part of a planned national exercise
> inform visitors, clients or customers that mobile devices may emit a loud warning sound during the test period
> consider any additional assistance people may need to understand the test such as language differences
STAYING SAFE is the MESSAGE
