Australia to Launch Nationwide Emergency Alert System on All Phones This Year
Australia is set to implement a new emergency alert system on all compatible phones by October 2023. This initiative, known as AusAlert, aims to enhance public safety by providing timely information during emergencies.
Implementation of AusAlert
The AusAlert system will replace the existing SMS emergency alerts. It is designed to deliver urgent notifications directly to phones within a 160-meter radius of an affected area. This innovative technology is expected to save lives in critical situations.
Key Features of AusAlert
- Loud Siren Alert: A critical alert will trigger a loud alarm from the phone.
- Informative Messages: Following the alarm, a second message will provide essential details about the emergency.
- Compatibility: All mobile phones manufactured from 2019 onwards will support this system.
Schedule and Testing
A nationwide test of AusAlert is planned for July 27 at 2 PM. Localized tests will commence on June 10 in select regions. The official launch is scheduled for October.
Government Insights
Brendan Moon, the Emergency Management Coordinator-General, emphasized the importance of this system in communicating the nature, severity, and necessary actions during emergencies. Emergency Management Minister Kirsty McBain added that AusAlert will display notifications on locked screens, offering a distinct approach compared to traditional text messages.
Response to National Disasters
The rollout of this system follows recommendations from the 2020 Royal Commission into National Natural Disaster Arrangements. The commission highlighted the necessity of effective mobile alerts during disasters to enhance public safety.
Global Context
More than 30 countries have already implemented similar technologies for emergency communication. The Australian government claims that AusAlert will be more reliable, precise, and efficient than the existing SMS alerts.
