AusAlert and Disability: What You Need to Know About Australia’s New Emergency Warning System
A practical guide to the AusAlert disability resources, accessibility features and what to do if you receive an alert.
Australia has launched AusAlert, a new national emergency warning system designed to send urgent messages to compatible mobile devices during local and national emergencies. For people with disability, their families, carers and support networks, understanding how AusAlert works is an important part of being prepared.
The National Emergency Management Agency has released AusAlert resources for people with disability, including information to help communities understand what alerts look and sound like, how they may work with assistive technologies, and where to find accessible materials.
What is AusAlert?
AusAlert is a national warning system that uses modern mobile technology to send emergency messages to compatible devices. The aim is to help people receive fast, reliable information during events such as bushfires, severe weather and other emergencies, so they can act quickly and follow official instructions.
Unlike a standard text message, an AusAlert appears as an alert notification on your device. Depending on the type of alert, your phone may vibrate, play a loud siren-like sound for around 10 seconds and turn on the screen to display the message.
The two types of AusAlert messages
There are two types of AusAlert messages people may receive:
Critical Alerts are used for the most serious emergencies. These cannot be turned off and may still sound even if your device is set to silent or do not disturb.
Priority Alerts are used when there is an increased risk and conditions are changing. These alerts can be turned off.
How AusAlert supports people with disability
Accessibility has been considered as part of the AusAlert rollout. The disability resource kit includes practical information and materials to help people understand the system before it is used in an emergency.
The kit includes a stakeholder information booklet, an explainer animation with subtitles, posters, factsheets, social media tiles and suggested post wording. Easy Read versions are also available, and AusAlert video explainers include Auslan and closed captions.
For Deaf and hard of hearing community members
If you are d/Deaf or hard of hearing, AusAlert may still support you by vibrating your device and turning on the screen when an alert arrives. It may also be heard through compatible hearing aids or cochlear implants and may work with other assistive technologies, such as bed shakers.
For people who are blind or have low vision
If you are blind or have low vision, AusAlert may be read aloud if text-to-speech is turned on. It may also work with assistive technologies such as screen readers, refreshable braille displays and screen magnification tools.
What to do if you receive an AusAlert
If you receive an AusAlert during a real emergency, take a moment to read the message carefully. If you need support, ask someone you trust, such as a carer, family member, friend or support worker. Most importantly, follow the instructions in the alert message. If you do not receive an alert, it may be because your device was turned off, in aeroplane mode or not compatible with AusAlert. Some devices made before 2019 may not receive AusAlerts, so it may be worth checking your device with someone you trust if you are unsure.
Staying safe with AusAlert
For some people, receiving an unexpected alert may create safety concerns, especially if they have a hidden device or are in an unsafe situation. AusAlert includes guidance called Staying Safe with AusAlert, which provides information for people who may feel unsafe receiving an alert.
When will AusAlert be ready?
AusAlert is an Australian Government initiative. A nationwide test took place on 27 July 2026, and the system is expected to be ready for use in October 2026.
AusAlert is another way Australians can receive emergency information quickly. For people with disability and their support networks, now is a good time to learn how the alerts work, check device compatibility, explore accessible resources and make a plan for what to do if an alert is received.
To prepare, share the disability resources with your community, talk through the alert process with people who may need support, and make sure trusted contacts know how to help during an emergency.
