Australia prepares for first nationwide AusAlert test on July 27

On Monday, 27 July, Australia will conduct a synchronized, nationwide test of its new emergency warning system, AusAlert. At 2 pm AEST the test will trigger a 10‑second siren on compatible mobile phones, smart watches and tablets, appearing as a large on‑screen notification that clearly states it is only a test. The Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the system, which uses cell‑broadcast technology, will replace the older SMS‑based alerts and roll out nationwide on 1 October ahead of the 2026‑27 bushfire season. ACT Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Phillips and National Emergency Management Agency officials have advised the public to switch phones to airplane mode or turn them off for at least one hour before the test, and warned that older devices or those without service may not receive the alert. Some states and territories may retain their own warning systems, and concerns have been raised about landline coverage and the safety of vulnerable people, including those experiencing domestic abuse. The test aims to familiarize Australians with the new system before it becomes operational.