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Community Notice - National AusAlert Test - Monday 27 July

Published on Monday, 20 July 2026 at 12:08:39 PM

Residents are encouraged to be aware of an upcoming national test of Australia's new emergency warning system, AusAlert, taking place at 12:00 pm AWST on Monday 27 July.

The Australian Government is introducing AusAlert, a new national warning system designed to deliver emergency alerts directly to compatible mobile phones, tablets and smartwatches during disasters and other significant emergencies. Before the system officially launches in October 2026, it will undergo a nationwide test to ensure it works when Australians need it most.

Please note: This test is being coordinated by the Australian Government and is not organised by the Shire of Toodyay.

What is AusAlert?

AusAlert is a new emergency warning system that uses the latest mobile technology to deliver important information directly to compatible devices during local and national emergencies.

The system will allow emergency services and governments to send timely alerts about:

Bushfires
Floods
Cyclones
Tsunamis
Severe storms
Public health emergencies
Security threats
Biosecurity incidents

Receiving critical information quickly can help communities make informed decisions and take action to protect themselves and others.

When is the National Test?

In Western Australia, the national test will take place on Monday 27 July at 12:00 pm (AWST)

During the test, compatible mobile devices across Australia may receive a Critical Alert.

What Should I Expect?

If your device is compatible, you may receive an alert that:

Displays a message clearly marked TEST
Plays a loud siren-like warning sound for approximately 10 seconds
Causes your device to vibrate
May sound even if your phone is on silent or Do Not Disturb

Unlike a text message, the alert will appear as a notification on your screen and may interrupt apps or phone calls until it is dismissed.

Do I Need to Take Any Action?

No.

This is only a test, so no action is required.

However, if this were a real emergency, the alert would include important information such as:

The type of emergency
Where the emergency is occurring
The level of danger
What action you should take
Which emergency service has issued the alert
Where to find further information

In a real emergency, always read the alert carefully and follow the instructions provided.

What If I Don't Receive the Alert?

Not every device will receive the test alert.

This may occur because:

Your device isn't compatible
Your operating system isn't up to date
Your device wasn't connected to a mobile tower during the test

If you don't receive the test, there is nothing you need to do. Feedback can be provided through the AusAlert website after the test if required.

Keeping Yourself and Others Safe

While most people will simply hear the alert and dismiss it, there are a few important things to remember.

If you're driving

If the alert sounds while you're driving, stay focused on the road. Do not pick up or interact with your phone. Mobile phone laws still apply. Read the notification only when it is safe and legal to do so.

If the alert could affect your safety

Because the national test is a Critical Alert, it cannot be opted out of.

If receiving the alert could put you or someone you know at risk, consider turning the device off or switching it to aeroplane mode before 12:00 pm AWST and leaving it off for at least one hour after the scheduled test.

Why This Matters

Western Australia regularly experiences emergencies such as bushfires, cyclones, floods and severe storms. Receiving timely, reliable warnings helps people make informed decisions and take action sooner.

The national test is an opportunity to become familiar with how AusAlert works before it is used during a real emergency.

We encourage all residents to take a few minutes to learn about the new system and discuss emergency plans with their household so everyone knows what to do when an alert is received.