Bold warning for everyone: a nationwide emergency alert will blast to every mobile device in Australia during a July test.
February 26, 2026 — 11:22am
A deafening siren will ring on every mobile phone within range when the Commonwealth’s AusAlert emergency warning system runs a test in July. The federal government has scheduled the national demonstration for July 27 at 2pm AEST. This new system aims to replace the current patchwork of state-based alerts with a single, unified approach.
AusAlert can target messages to phones across a spectrum—from the whole country down to a specific street. It is designed to warn the public of imminent natural disasters such as fires, floods, and cyclones, as well as other public safety threats that affect particular areas, including active shooting incidents and biosecurity risks like disease outbreaks.
There are two alert levels. The high-priority “critical” alert will sound on every phone and appear on the home screen regardless of individual settings. A lower-priority “priority” alert can be opted out of by users who don’t want those quieter notices.
The project cost the government about $132 million to develop. AusAlert operates via cell technology that does not rely on traditional telecom networks, so it should function even when networks are congested.
Emergency Services Minister Kristy McBain emphasizes the program’s goal: to help warn people in harm’s way, protect property, and support emergency services, aligning with recommendations from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.
Before the nationwide test, nine locations will receive a trial alert in June. These locations include Majura (ACT), Launceston (Tasmania), Port Douglas (Queensland), Liverpool (NSW), Tennant Creek (NT), Geelong (Victoria), Goomalling (WA), Port Lincoln (SA), and Queanbeyan (NSW).
More details to come.
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Mike Foley is the climate and energy correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Reach him via email.
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