AusAlert National Mobile Alert Test To Sound Across Ararat Rural City

Ararat Rural City Council is advising residents that the Australian Government’s new AusAlert national warning system will be tested across Australia at 2 pm AEST on Monday 27 July 2026. 

During the national test, most compatible devices in Ararat and across Australia will vibrate and play a loud, siren‑like sound for about 10 seconds, and a test message will appear on screens. The 27 July test will be a Critical Alert, which means devices will vibrate and make a loud sound even if they are on silent or do not disturb. You cannot opt out of this national test while your device is turned on.

Ararat Rural City Council Chief Executive Officer Dr Tim Harrison said the national test was an important step in helping communities understand what AusAlert messages look and sound like before they are used in real emergencies.

“Emergencies can unfold quickly, and when they do, people need clear, timely information delivered straight to the device that is already in their hand or pocket,” Dr Harrison said. “By giving people a heads‑up about this test, we can reduce confusion on the day and help make AusAlert something our community understands and feels prepared for, rather than something that catches people off guard.”

People who use hidden mobile devices or safety technology, or who feel that receiving the test alert could increase their risk of harm, are advised to turn off their device or switch it to aeroplane mode before the test time and leave it off or on aeroplane mode for at least one hour. This guidance is particularly important for people experiencing family or domestic violence, as a sudden alert could expose a concealed device.

The AusAlert national test is only a test, and you do not need to take any action when you receive the alert. However, usual road rules remain in place, and drivers and riders must not look at, touch, or respond to the alert while they are moving. If you receive the alert while driving, stay calm and wait until you are safely parked before checking your device.

AusAlert will begin operating in October 2026 and will be available to the Australian Government and state and territory emergency service organisations to send emergency messages to compatible devices in at‑risk areas. For more information about AusAlert, device compatibility, and safety advice, visit the AusAlert website at https://www.ausalert.gov.au/