AusAlert tests
Before AusAlert is ready to use in October 2026, the system needs to be tested.
If you receive an AusAlert test alert as part of community testing or the national test, you don’t need to do anything.
After 1 October 2026
When AusAlert is launched, all alerts will be about an actual emergency.
If you receive a real AusAlert:
- read the message when it’s safe to do so
- tell others, including family and people nearby
- follow the instructions in the message.
Continue to check local TV, radio, emergency apps and websites for updates about the emergency.
Alert content
An AusAlert message will show the alert level:
Critical Alert
This is the highest level of warning. You may be in danger.
Priority Alert
There is a high level of threat. Watch and act.
Learn about these alert types.
Depending on the emergency, the message may also include:
- the type of emergency (for example, bushfire or flood)
- where it is
- how serious it is
- the actions you need to take
- where more information can be found
- the name of the organisation that sent the message.
If you have a disability
See extra information about AusAlert and resources for people with disability.
If you don’t receive an alert
You might not receive an AusAlert if:
- your mobile device is turned off
- your mobile device is in aeroplane mode
- your mobile device is not compatible with AusAlert
- there’s no mobile signal because a nearby tower is damaged or under repair.
If none of the above is true and you still can’t receive alerts:
- contact your mobile provider.
If you receive an alert more than once
You might receive the same AusAlert more than once if, while the alert is active:
- your device switches between a 4G and 5G network
- you turn aeroplane mode on and off
- you turn your device off and back on.
Some devices also have an alert reminder setting. If this is turned on, the alert sound may play again. You can check or turn this off in your phone settings.
If an alert is updated, you may receive a new alert message.
How to read an AusAlert again
Find alerts on Android devices
To find past AusAlerts on Android devices:
- Open Settings
- Go to Safety and Emergency
- Go to Wireless Emergency Alerts
- Go to Emergency Alert History
Find alerts on Apple (iOS) devices
AusAlerts aren't stored on Apple devices.
If you receive an AusAlert and dismiss or interact with it, it will move into your device's Notification Centre.
Once it's in the Notification Centre, if you swipe the AusAlert away, it's gone for good.
If you have Apple devices, the best way to see a Current Alert or Past Alert is to view it on the AusAlert website.
Note: AusAlerts are not received by Apple iPads.
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.