Date set for AusAlert test

A new national warning system is being tested on Monday in a move which will impact residents across Moreton Bay and Australia.

The test will see an alert sent to all mobile phones in Australia at the same time. This includes most phones, some smart watches and tablets.

In Queensland the Critical AusAlert test will be conducted at 2pm AEST on Monday July 27.

Devices will vibrate and play a siren-like warning sound for about 10 seconds.

An AusAlert message will appear on screens. It will clearly say it is a test and look like this:

Older devices or operating systems may see an American or International alert heading such as Presidential Alert or Extreme Threat Alert:

This is because older devices do not follow Australian standards, however the content will be the same and you do not have to do anything.

AusAlert will use the latest technology to send emergency messages to compatible mobile devices during local and national disasters.

It will be ready for use in October 2026, with messages to keep communities informed so they can take action, saving lives and property.

In a disaster, AusAlert will likely tell you the type of emergency, where and how serious it is, what to do, who sent the AusAlert and where to get more information.

If you do not receive the test, you do not need to do anything. It may be because:

• Your device is older or does not support AusAlert, meaning it's not compatible

• Your device might not be updated to a software version for emergency alerts

• Your device might not have a mobile signal at the time of the test

• The mobile tower closest to you might not be working due to maintenance or outage.

• Or your device may be switched off, in aeroplane mode or not connected to a mobile tower at the time of the test

For more information visit here.