Your phone will sound a loud emergency alert on 27 July. Here’s what you need to know
Key takeaways
- Mobile phones across Australia will sound a siren at 2pm AEST on Monday 27 July as part of a national test of the AusAlert emergency warning system.
- You can't opt out. The alert will sound even if your phone is on silent or do not disturb.
- Family violence experts warn the alert could reveal hidden safety phones, so some people are being urged to switch them off before the test and leave them off for 24 hours.
At 2pm AEST on Monday 27 July, millions of Australians will hear a loud 10-second siren and feel their phones, tablets or smartwatches vibrate as part of a nationwide emergency alert test.
It's not a siren of an emergency. It's a planned test of AusAlert, the country's new national warning system.
The text will read: "This is a TEST alert of AusAlert, Australia's new emergency warning system. NO ACTION IS REQUIRED."
What is AusAlert and why is this happening?
AusAlert is Australia's new national emergency warning system, run by the National Emergency Management Agency.
It's designed to warn people about serious emergencies such as bushfires, floods and other major threats in their area.
The system uses cell-broadcast technology, which is already used in around 30 countries around the world.
You don't need to sign up, download an app or do anything.
The 27 July event is a nationwide test to make sure the system works as expected and identify any issues before AusAlert officially launches in October 2026.
If you don't receive an alert, there's no need to worry.
Your phone may not be compatible, or it may need a software update. You don't need to take any action.
Can I turn the alert off?
Since this is a Critical Alert, you won't be able to avoid it even if your phone is on silent or Do Not Disturb mode.
The only way to avoid the alert completely is to turn your phone off or switch it to aeroplane mode.
If you're doing that, the advice is to switch the phone off at least one hour before the test and leave it off for 24 hours afterwards, then turn it back on.
Why domestic violence victims need to know about this
For many people, the test will be a brief interruption.
But for some, it could have serious consequences.
Family violence experts have warned that the alert may pose a risk for people who keep a secondary phone as part of their safety plan or to stay connected while escaping abuse.
If that phone suddenly plays a loud siren, it could reveal its location or alert someone to its existence.
If this applies to you or someone you know, you can follow the advice on switching the hidden phone off or putting it in aeroplane mode and then leaving it off for 24 hours if possible.
Where to get help
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic or family violence, you can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, or via 1800respect.org.au, for free, confidential support 24 hours a day.
In an emergency, always call 000.
Sources
Ask a question