The Australian Government is preparing to launch Aus Alert, a new national emergency warning system capable of sending alerts directly to compatible mobile phones during disasters and emergencies.
Before its official rollout in October 2026, a test alert will be conducted in Geelong, Victoria, at 2:00pm on Thursday, 18 June 2026. People in or travelling through Geelong may receive a pop-up notification accompanied by a loud siren and vibration, even if their phones are on silent mode.
Authorities emphasise that this is only a test and no action is required. Officials have acknowledged that the alert may be distressing for some individuals, including victim-survivors of family violence and people who have experienced trauma.
Those concerned about receiving the notification are advised to switch their phones off or enable aeroplane mode before 2pm and keep them off for at least one hour. A nationwide Aus Alert test is also scheduled for 27 July 2026, with further details to be released closer to the date.
