AusAlert emergency warning test across millions of Australian devices

In Short:
– AusAlert emergency warning system test will occur today at 2 PM AEST for most states.
– Devices will sound a test alert; users can disable notifications by turning off their devices.

Millions of Australian smartphones will sound today for the test of the AusAlert emergency warning system.The AusAlert system aims to notify users nationwide about emergencies and will officially launch in October.

Notifications will be sent at 2 PM AEST for New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and the Australian Capital Territory, while South Australia and the Northern Territory will receive it at 1:30 PM ACST, and Western Australia at 12 PM AWST.

All mobile devices across the country are expected to receive the test alert.

Older or incompatible devices may not get the alert if not updated or lacking a mobile signal.

The test will display a message indicating it is a test without requiring any action.

During the test, devices will emit a siren-like sound for about ten seconds.

Concerns have emerged regarding individuals in domestic violence situations, as the system will override silent settings.

Users can avoid receiving the test by turning off their devices or switching to aeroplane mode an hour prior.

AusAlert operates using cell-broadcast technology, ensuring messages can reach users even if mobile networks are busy.

The system only alerts devices within a specific geographic area, enhancing targeted communication.

AusAlert was developed following the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements, aiming to strengthen emergency responses.

Despite concerns regarding compatibility and language barriers, officials maintain that existing state alert systems will continue alongside AusAlert.

Similar systems exist globally in the U.S., Japan, and the U.K., showing the importance of timely alerts in emergencies.