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People with secret ‘safe phones’ advised to turn off devices during national test of AusAlert emergency warning

From The Guardian · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Australia will test a new national emergency alert system, AusAlert, on Monday afternoon.
  • The system will send an audible siren and a notification to most mobile phones and some smart devices.
  • Concerns have been raised about the alert potentially exposing 'safe phones' used by domestic violence survivors, with advice to turn off devices for up to 24 hours.

Australia is set to test its new national emergency alert system, AusAlert, on Monday afternoon, sending an unsilenceable siren and a notification to most mobile phones and compatible devices. The system, designed to improve disaster warnings following the 'black summer' bushfires, is scheduled to be fully implemented in October.

While the federal government promotes AusAlert as a superior alternative to the current SMS-based alerts, several state governments have expressed reservations. Concerns include the system's inability to reach landline phones, older devices, or those relying on satellite signals. Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain acknowledged these issues, stating that voice alerts for landlines are being developed and the existing Emergency Alert system will run concurrently for the upcoming high-risk weather season.

The 2020 bushfire royal commission into national natural disaster arrangements highlighted the fact that we don’t have a system that is capable of resilience currently, that it has its failings and that we do need to move towards a nationally consistent alert system so that people know what to expect.

— Kristy McBainExplaining the need for the new AusAlert system, referencing the findings of the 2020 bushfire royal commission.

McBain described AusAlert as "more capable" and "far superior" technology, emphasizing its role in creating a nationally consistent warning system. The 2020 bushfire royal commission highlighted the need for a more resilient and reliable alert mechanism.

However, a significant concern has emerged regarding 'safe phones', devices kept hidden by individuals experiencing domestic violence for personal safety. The AusAlert test will sound even if phones are on silent or do not disturb mode. Domestic violence campaigners and the National Emergency Management Agency have advised individuals with such devices to consider turning them off for up to 24 hours after the test to avoid potential exposure.

It’s one of the reasons those two systems will run alongside each other for this high-risk weather season.

— Kristy McBainAddressing concerns about system compatibility and ensuring continued coverage during the upcoming weather season.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Guardian. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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