These texts could save lives, but testing them could put others at risk

TESTING for Australia’s new emergency alert system is raising safety concerns for people in vulnerable situations.

The new system will be tested across Geelong in June before being rolled out for national testing in July.

During the test, mobile phones will vibrate and emit a loud sound. For people experiencing family violence or coercive control, the alert may be detrimental to their safety.

Lisa Robinson, director of family safety and therapeutic services at Meli, said safety concerns in relation to the testing are valid.

“For individuals who rely on a hidden or ‘safe’ phone to seek help or maintain safety, this may unintentionally reveal the existence of that device to a partner or perpetrator. For these community members, the alert could increase the risk of harm.”

AusAlert uses cell-broadcasted technology to override phone settings such as ‘do not disturb’ when delivering alerts.

“This means that even a phone with no SIM card, or one kept strictly hidden for safety reasons, will still emit a sound and vibration when the test occurs,” Robinson said.

“For victim-survivors at risk of surveillance, coercive control or physical harm, this presents a significant concern.”

People privately storing devices for safety reasons are encouraged to plan for the alert testing.

Turning the device off, placing it to somewhere it will not be heard, handing it to a trusted person and seeking advice from a specialist family violence service are encouraged.

“Importantly, each person’s circumstances are different, and some strategies may increase risk depending on their situation,” Robinson said.

AusAlert was developed in response to the Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements. The commission highlighted the need for timely and accurate emergency warnings during times of natural disaster.

AusAlert will enable authorities to send geographically targeted messages to compatible mobile devices within a 160m accuracy.

Although in full support of the program, Robinson said public awareness campaigns must be clear about how the testing works to ensure people experiencing family violence are not placed at further risk.

“As a service supporting victim-survivors and families experiencing violence, we want to ensure people are aware of the test and have an opportunity to plan for it safely,” she said.

“At the same time, Meli recognises that AusAlert is an important step forward in keeping communities informed and protected during emergencies, and we fully support the intent and purpose of the system.”

AusAlert will be rolled out in October and is expected to be fully functioning for the 2026-27 high risk weather season.

Geelong will receive geotargeted testing in June before a national test occurs at 2pm on Monday 27 July.

If you are experiencing family violence help is available 24/7 via 1800RESPECT or Victoria’s Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre on 1800 015 188. Barwon region locals can contact Barwon Orange Door on 1800 312 820. In an emergency call Triple Zero (000).