Important Notice: Nationwide AusAlert Test – Monday, 27 July 2026
On Monday, 27 July 2026, the Australian Government will conduct a nationwide test of the AusAlert emergency warning system.
At the scheduled time, all compatible mobile phones, tablets and smart watches connected to active 4G and 5G networks will receive a test emergency alert. Devices will vibrate and sound a loud, siren-like alarm for approximately 10 seconds, and will display a message clearly identifying the alert as a test.
Test times are:
2:00 pm AEST: New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania
1:30 pm ACST: South Australia and the Northern Territory
12:00 pm AWST: Western Australia
Because this is a Critical Alert, it will override silent mode and "Do Not Disturb" settings. The only way to prevent a device from receiving the test alert is to switch it off completely or place it in aeroplane mode for the duration of the test.
Important Information for People Experiencing Family Violence
If you have a hidden or secret mobile phone, tablet or smart watch that is being kept for your safety, it is important to plan ahead. Unless the device is completely switched off or placed in aeroplane mode before the scheduled test, it may sound the alert, potentially revealing its location.
If it is safe to do so, consider:
- Turning the device off before the scheduled test time; or
- Placing it in aeroplane mode for the duration of the test; or
- Moving it to a safe location where the alert cannot be heard.
After the test has finished, you can turn the device back on or disable aeroplane mode.
If you are affected by family violence and have concerns about your safety or would like confidential legal advice, please contact our family law team via our website or on (03) 9739 7377. We understand the importance of safety planning and are here to support you.