New national emergency warning system

What is AusAlert?

AusAlert is a new national emergency warning system that sends urgent messages to compatible mobile phones and other mobile devices in a specified area.

AusAlert brings cell-broadcast technology to Australian emergency warnings. This technology is considered international best practice and is used by more than 30 countries for emergency warning communications.

AusAlert will allow emergency services organisations and some Australian Government agencies to send targeted warning messages. The system will be more reliable, accurate and efficient than current systems. This means authorities can reach people quickly when it matters most, keeping Australians informed and helping to save lives and property. In the future, AusAlert will also send automated voice messages to landline phones. 

An AusAlert message will tell you:

• what the emergency is
• where it is happening
• how serious it is
• what you should do
• who the message is from
• where to find more information.

When AusAlert may be used

AusAlert may be used for a range of situations, including:

• Natural hazards, such as bushfires, floods, cyclones and tsunamis
• Public safety and security threats, such as serious public safety incidents or terrorism
• Biosecurity incidents, such as animal or plant disease and biohazard outbreaks
• Health emergencies, such as pandemics or other national public health events.