Albanese admits national emergency alerts system is unprepared for Cyclone Alfred
Announced in May 2023, the NMS aims to enhance emergency communication with real-time mobile alerts, with plans for it to be operational by the end of 2024.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently acknowledged that the National Messaging System (NMS) was not made operational in time due to its complexity amidst Australia’s battle with Cyclone Alfred. Albanese stated, “I prefer it was ready, but it’s been complex to deliver,” during a press conference in Canberra on March 6.
He emphasized the importance of thorough testing before launching the system, saying, “You have to be 100 percent sure that it’s ready to go before you turn it online.”
Despite the delay, Albanese reassured the public that the current Emergency Alert System remains effective and is still the primary method of warning for extreme weather events. Emergency services are using this system to reach vulnerable communities.
Understanding the National Messaging System
The NMS, introduced in May 2023, aims to improve emergency communication using cell broadcast technology to provide real-time alerts to mobile devices during crises.
The system will facilitate quicker, prioritized messaging from trusted sources, ensuring prompt warnings during disasters. It will also support multi-language alerts, enabling authorities to communicate crucial safety information in English and another language to reach diverse communities.
A significant feature of the NMS is its location-based targeting, allowing messages to be sent to devices within a 160-meter radius. Additionally, the system will override phone settings to ensure emergency messages are received, even if devices are in “Do Not Disturb” mode.
The Albanese government has also allocated $10.1 million for a Public Safety Mobile Broadband (PSMB) capability, aiming to provide first responders with fast and secure voice, video, and data communications during emergencies. This initiative seeks to enhance coordination among emergency services and improve response times.
Examining the Delays
Shadow Communications Minister Melissa McIntosh criticized the government for failing to deliver on its promise, indicating that the NMS might not be operational until 2027, well beyond the initially expected launch by the end of 2024.
McIntosh stated, “The prime minister admitted today that he has failed to launch the National Messaging System (NMS) in time for the cyclone that is bearing down on Queensland and New South Wales.” She also mentioned that the Coalition initially funded the NMS in the 2022 Budget under the Morrison government to ensure reliable emergency communications for disaster-affected communities.
While Communications Minister Michelle Rowland had previously mentioned that the system would take 18 months to implement, delays in finalizing contracts have resulted in the first stage being delivered now.
Shadow Minister for Emergency Management Perin Davey also criticized the Albanese Government for not prioritizing the NMS, alleging that it has been neglected alongside PSMB in the government’s priorities.
