Australia’s new emergency warning platform, AusAlert, will undergo its first public test today in the Canberra suburb of Duffy as authorities prepare for the system’s nationwide rollout later this year.
The federal government has stressed that the alert is only a test and that residents who receive notifications do not need to take any action.
AusAlert is being developed to provide emergency warnings during natural disasters such as bushfires and floods, as well as public safety incidents, terrorism threats, biosecurity events and health emergencies.
How the Test Will Work
During the trial, text messages will be sent to mobile phones within the designated testing area.
Compatible devices may also vibrate and emit a siren-style warning sound lasting about 10 seconds.
Authorities said an AusAlert message may appear on phone screens and will clearly identify itself as a test.
The exact appearance of the alert will depend on the type of device and operating system being used.
More Tests Scheduled
The Duffy trial is the first in a series of local tests planned across Australia in the coming weeks.
Additional testing is scheduled for:
- Launceston on 15 June
- Cooya Beach, Queensland, on 16 June
- Liverpool, New South Wales, on 17 June
- Tennant Creek, Northern Territory, on 18 June
- Geelong, Victoria, on 18 June
Further local tests are expected to follow.
Nationwide Rollout Later This Year
The government plans to have the system operational later this year.
A nationwide test of AusAlert is scheduled for 27 July as authorities continue preparations for the full launch.
Government information states that anyone located within a testing area and carrying a compatible mobile device may receive the alert, even though no emergency exists.
Officials have reiterated that recipients of test messages do not need to respond because the alerts are being issued solely for testing purposes.