Joining us now is Senator Paul Scarr. Good morning, Senator. How are you?
Senator Paul Scarr:
I’m great, Marnie and Campo. Good to be with you.
Host:
What’s the latest on the alert system? I know there are a few concerns about it at the moment.
Senator Paul Scarr:
There are some concerns about whether all the states and territories will adopt it. That’s why Monday’s trial is absolutely crucial. I’ll be very interested to hear feedback from people in our local region about whether they receive the alert next Monday at 2pm, and whether their family and friends receive it as well. Let’s see how it works.
Host:
You mentioned there are some concerns. Are those concerns mainly about whether everyone will receive the alert?
Senator Paul Scarr:
Yes. One concern is that not everyone may receive it if their mobile phone doesn’t have the necessary technology or software updates. There are also concerns about whether the system can adequately reach people who still rely on landlines. Another issue is whether all states and territories will ultimately adopt the system. The question is whether this becomes a truly national scheme or whether some jurisdictions continue using their own alert systems.
Host:
It’s called the Oz Alert system, isn’t it? It’s designed to provide warnings for bushfires, floods, storms and biosecurity hazards.
I understand why governments want a system that can push messages out immediately, and obviously mobile phones are the easiest way to do that. I can see how delivering those alerts through landlines would be more challenging. But it’s a test, and the intention is clearly to ensure people receive critical warnings as quickly as possible.
Senator Paul Scarr:
Absolutely. Hopefully, the trial is successful. More than $130 million has been spent on this system, so we need to get it right.
One of the other concerns that’s been raised relates to people experiencing domestic violence. Some may have a hidden or emergency phone that they keep for safety reasons. Authorities are advising those individuals to switch their phones to silent or “Do Not Disturb” mode because the alert will produce a very loud sound.
Host:
And that could put people at risk in some situations.
Senator Paul Scarr:
Yes. That’s why the advice is being strongly communicated. It’s certainly an area of concern.
Host:
What if someone forgets?
Senator Paul Scarr:
Hopefully, with enough notice before next week’s test, people in those circumstances can take the necessary precautions.
Host:
I imagine many of those phones are already kept on silent for security reasons, but I understand the concern. By getting the message out now, hopefully people who need to can take action before the test.
Senator Paul Scarr:
Exactly.
Host:
Senator, are the emergency warning systems we currently have working?
Senator Paul Scarr:
I believe they are working, but the goal is to create a nationally coordinated system that is used consistently across all states and territories.
One concern is that some states and territories have indicated they may not adopt the new system for the upcoming bushfire and cyclone season. If that happens, we could end up with two systems operating simultaneously, and I think that creates confusion.
Host:
There seem to be quite a few concerns.
I don’t really understand why a state or territory wouldn’t adopt a system that’s designed to improve public safety. Surely the aim is to have everyone on the same page and working from the same warnings and information. It seems a little odd.
Senator Paul Scarr:
Ideally, we would have one national system. Some states and territories have raised concerns, which also leads to the question of whether sufficient consultation occurred before the system was adopted.
Host:
You mentioned the system is expected to come online in October, so that’s why these tests are taking place now.
What time is the test on Monday?
Senator Paul Scarr:
It’s scheduled for 2pm.
Host:
All right. Thank you, Paul. Thanks for the update.
Senator Paul Scarr:
My pleasure. And I’m certainly keen to hear feedback from your listeners.
Host:
That’s Senator Paul Scarr.
