Emergency alert system test to sound across Geelong today

Residents in Geelong will receive loud, targeted emergency alerts on their phones today in the first Victorian community testing of the new AusAlert system.

Compatible devices in Belmont and Highton will receive the alert at 2pm.

Phones may vibrate and emit a siren-like sound for ten seconds, with a notification also appearing on screen.

Community members who receive the alert do not need to take any action.

AusAlert is a new emergency warning system that allows governments and emergency services to send geo-targeted alerts about disasters, including natural hazards, public health emergencies and security threats.

 

 

The test is one of nine occurring across Australia this month as the new emergency warning system undergoes testing before its national rollout.

The system is being tested in stages throughout June, with priority alerts tested first.

These alerts can be turned off through device settings and are designed to provide recipients with ‘watch and act’ advice during major incidents.

In July, critical alerts will be tested. These alerts will be deployed when there is imminent danger that requires immediate action, and cannot be turned off.

A nationwide test will be sent to all mobile devices in Australia at 2pm on Monday 27 July.

AusAlert will be launched in October 2026, ahead of the national bushfire season.