The Albanese Government's new cell-broadcast national messaging system will be known as 'AusAlert' and will begin testing this year through community-based trials and a national test.
AusAlert is expected to be operational by October 2026, ahead of the 2026-27 high risk weather season.
AusAlert will use the latest technology to enable authorities (including States and Territories) to send geographically targeted emergency messages to all compatible mobile devices within a 160-metre accuracy.
The system will not be impacted by telecommunication network congestion, helping communities to understand the risks and make appropriate decisions about their personal safety.
AusAlert will be supported by a dedicated website. This forms part of a wider public awareness campaign that will ensure all Australian people clearly understand how the system works and what to do if they receive an alert.
Ahead of the launch, community-based trials are expected to take place across urban, regional, and remote areas in all states and territories in June 2026, with locations to include:
- Majura, ACT
- Launceston, TAS
- Port Douglas, QLD
- Liverpool, NSW
- Geelong, VIC
- Tennant Creek, NT
- Goomalling, WA
- Port Lincoln, SA
- Queanbeyan, NSW (cross border test)
A national test of AusAlert will take place at 2:00PM AEST on Monday 27 July 2026 following the community testing to validate the system's full capability and support awareness of the new system.
During the national test, everyone with a compatible mobile device will receive an alert.
Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the community testing and national test are significant milestones for AusAlert.
"The Albanese Government is undertaking these tests to ensure the technology performs as expected, and to build community awareness before AusAlert is needed in an actual emergency.
"This is an important project that will help us and emergency services organisations warn people when they are in harm's way, saving lives and protecting property during a disaster, delivering on a key finding from the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements.
"Every state and territory will participate in a community-based trial in June, before a national test takes place on 27 July 2026.
"This is a major development in Australia's emergency communication landscape, and I thank Australians in advance for their cooperation as we move into the launch phase for AusAlert ahead of the next high risk weather season," said Minister McBain.
