Older Australians

AusAlert and older Australians

For some older Australians, alerts may feel distressing or confusing.

AusAlert sends near-instant emergency messages to compatible mobile devices like mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches. 

AusAlerts use vibration, sound and on-screen messages to get your attention. They look and sound different to an ordinary text message (SMS). They may alert you even if your device is on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’.

An AusAlert looks something like this:

If you don’t have a mobile device but have a landline, you may receive an AusAlert with spoken instructions.

Accessibility devices

If you have text-to-speech turned on, the alert will be read out to you. It will also work with hearing aids.

AusAlert is being tested to see if it works with other assistive technologies, including:

• bed shakers
• refreshable braille displays
• screen magnification tools.

Receiving an AusAlert

In a disaster, you may receive an AusAlert if you have a compatible mobile device. 

If you receive an AusAlert:

• read the message carefully 
• ask someone you trust for help if needed
• follow the instructions in the alert message. 

If you don’t receive an AusAlert, don't worry. It may be because:

• your device might have been turned off or in aeroplane mode during the alert period
• your device might not be compatible.

Some devices made before 2019 may not receive AusAlerts. If you’re not sure how to find out when your mobile device was made, ask a carer, family member or your mobile provider for help. 

Stop receiving some AusAlerts

AusAlerts contain life-saving information and should stay on where possible.

If an AusAlert could cause distress, you can change how they appear or turn some features off.

If you turn off Priority Alerts, use other sources to stay updated, such as radio, television or ABC online.

Why you can trust AusAlert

AusAlert is run by the Australian Government and is safe and secure. Only authorised emergency services organisations and the Australian Government can send AusAlerts.

AusAlert:

• will never ask for your personal or financial details 
• will never include clickable links in alert messages 
• does not know or store your personal information 
• does not know or store your phone number 
• does not track your location 
• does not require you to sign up or download an app. 

If you receive anything that seems suspicious, you can report it to ScamWatch. 

Other ways to get emergency information

AusAlert is just one way to stay safe in an emergency. It’s important you don’t wait to receive an AusAlert before acting in a disaster.

You can also get emergency information from:

• local radio – the ABC is the official national emergency broadcaster
• television
• social media
• emergency services apps
• friends and family.

Get ready for AusAlert

AusAlert will be tested across Australia in June and July 2026.

You or someone you care for may receive a test alert.

During AusAlert community and national testing:

• a message may appear on your screen
• you may hear a loud siren sound for about 10 seconds
• you do not need to do anything.

Safe testing

If an AusAlert test message may cause stress or harm, you can turn off your device or switch it to aeroplane mode before the test time in your location. Leave your device off for at least one hour.

Important: you will still receive an AusAlert test if your phone is on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’.

For more information, see:

• Compatible mobile devices
• How to turn off an AusAlert
• Resources and downloads