Domestic Violence Victims Warned to Turn Off Safe

Phones During AusAlert Test

The Australian government is preparing to test its new nationwide emergency alert system, AusAlert, which will send alerts to every mobile device in the country on July 27. While the test aims to ensure public safety, experts warn that it may put victims of domestic violence at risk.

According to Hannah Tonkin, the women's safety commissioner for NSW, the alert may unintentionally expose devices that are used as safe phones by victims of domestic violence. Safe phones are often used by victims to access support services, but they can also compromise their safety if they receive unexpected alerts.

Tonkin recommended that victims turn off their safe phones at least one hour before the test and leave them off for at least one hour after the test concludes. She also suggested switching the device onto aeroplane mode for the same length of time.

The Australian government has worked with domestic and family violence organisations to develop targeted safety information for people who may be at risk. NEMA, the body responsible for AusAlert, has also provided advice on how to keep hidden safety phones safe during the test.

### AusAlert: A Nationwide Emergency Alert System

AusAlert is a new nationwide emergency alert system that will replace patchwork state-based systems by October. The system can be triggered on virtually all devices with a SIM card within a designated area, from nationwide to street-by-street messages.

The system will be used to issue a wide range of warnings, including natural disasters, threats to public safety, biosecurity, and health threats. The test alert will be sent at the same time on July 27.

### Domestic Violence in Australia

According to Australian Femicide Watch, at least 36 women have died from domestic and family violence in Australia so far in 2026. Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

### What You Need to Know

  • AusAlert is a new nationwide emergency alert system that will replace patchwork state-based systems by October.
  • The system will be used to issue a wide range of warnings, including natural disasters, threats to public safety, biosecurity, and health threats.
  • Domestic violence victims are at risk of being compromised during the test alert, and experts recommend turning off safe phones during the test.
  • The test alert will be sent at the same time on July 27.
  • Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).