The Australian Government will conduct a nationwide test of AusAlert, Australia’s new national emergency warning system at 2pm on Monday, 27 July 2026.
AusAlert will be a fast and reliable way to help people be informed and better prepared during local and national emergencies, such as bushfires, severe weather and public health emergencies. Before AusAlert becomes operational in October 2026, it will be tested across Australia to ensure it works as intended.
What to expect during the test
As part of the nationwide test, this alert will sound on all compatible mobile devices including those that are set to ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’. Compatible devices may be mobile phones, smartwatches, and tablets.
Devices may:
- vibrate
- display a text message
- play a loud, siren-like sound for approximately 10 seconds
The message will clearly state that it is a test and that no action is required.
Important information for people with additional or safety devices
AusAlerts are designed to get people’s attention quickly during emergencies, to help keep them safe. Bur for people who use safety devices, receiving an AusAlert may cause concern as it would make those devises easier to find, especially if they are meant to stay hidden.
If receiving AusAlerts may place you, or someone you know, at risk, the following steps could be taken at least 1 hour before the test:
- Turn the device off or switch it to aeroplane mode
- Leave the device turned off or in aeroplane mode for 24 hours
- Turn the device off if it does not have an aeroplane mode option
- Consider all devices that may need to remain undiscovered and disconnecting during this alert including phones, smartwatches, tablets
A device in aeroplane mode can still be used through WiFi where it is safe to do so.
Important: you will still receive the AusAlert national test if your device is on ‘silent’ or ‘do not disturb’
For people in Victoria, this means taking these steps by 1:00pm (AEST) on Monday 27 July.
Where it is safe to do so, you are encouraged to share this information discreetly with anyone who may need it.
Visit the AusAlert website to learn more, find safety guidance, and translated resources.
La Trobe Support Services
If you or anyone you know is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000) or (0 000 on University phones)
- Connect with La Trobe’s Wellbeing Services, including Student Wellbeing Connect.
- You can access La Trobe’s Safer Community Service, a free and confidential support service for all La Trobe students and staff.
- Out-of-hours mental health and wellbeing support can be accessed anytime 24 hours a day by calling 1300 146 307 or texting 0488 884 100.
External supports
- 1800 RESPECT: National sexual assault, domestic, family violence counselling service. Tel: 1800 737 732
- ESafety Commissioner: A national service to report and respond to online abuse or illegal and restricted content.
- CASACV: Counselling, advocacy and support for anyone who has experienced sexual assault, (past or recent). Located in Bendigo, a counsellor also visits Bendigo campus fortnightly for student appointments and can be accessed via Wellbeing Services or CASACV.
- NCASA: 03 9496 2369, Counselling, advocacy and support for anyone who has experienced sexual assault, (past or recent). Located in Heidelberg, a counsellor also visits the Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus weekly for student appointments and can be accessed through Wellbeing Services or NCASA.
- Sexual Assault Crisis Line: Provide crisis response, support and advocacy for people who have experienced Sexual violence. After Hours Tel: 1800 806 292.
- Djirra: Djirra is a place where culture is shared and celebrated, and where practical support is available to Aboriginal people who are currently experiencing family violence or have in the past. Tel: 1800 105 3030
- 13Yarn: Thirteen YARN is the first national crisis line for mob needing support, offering 24/7 confidential yarning with Lifeline-trained Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters. It provides a culturally safe, non-judgemental space to talk about worries, needs, or concerns. Tel: 13 92 76
- Daisy app: Connecting women who are experiencing or have experienced sexual assault, and domestic and family violence to services in their state and the local area.
- QLife: Counselling for LGBTIQ people, by LGBTIQ people. Tel: 1800 184 527
- Men’s Line: Free professional 24/7 telephone counselling support for men with concerns about mental health, anger management, family violence (using and experiencing), addiction, relationships, stress, and wellbeing. Tel: 1300 78 99 78