00:01If this doesn't go off, you guys are going to have a field day.
00:04The Federal Emergency Management Minister gave us a taste of the new AusAlert system last month
00:10after an uncomfortable wait.
00:15A national test will go out to all devices on Monday.
00:20It will demonstrate the full speed, volume and capability of AusAlert.
00:24A national warning system was recommended after the Black Summer bushfires.
00:31AusAlert works using cell broadcast technology to trigger an alarm on mobiles, tablets and smartwatches in a specific area
00:39and send them emergency information.
00:41It is not telco-reliant. If a tower is available, compatible devices will receive that alert.
00:48The alerts won't go to phones running old software, those connected to satellites and landlines.
00:53The idea of an unprompted 10 second siren is alarming to those with hidden phones who may be experiencing domestic
01:01violence.
01:02Consider turning that device off or switching it into aeroplane mode.
01:06The system goes live in October, but state-based warnings and the existing Aus Emergency System will continue to operate
01:14this summer.
01:15So I'm obviously keen to see how the trial goes and we want to make sure that it is fit
01:20for purpose.
01:21It needs to have full functionality, including the ability to send messages through to landlines.
01:26Systems similar to AusAlert are in place in 35 countries.
01:31Experts say elsewhere there has been teething issues, but the technology has proven to be very effective.
01:37The AusAlert system is built to reach 90% of the devices across our country.
01:42Early evacuation saves lives and the AusAlert system affords early notification.
01:48The test alarm will sound at 2pm Eastern Time on Monday.
