New National Counter-Terrorism Alert System

On 1 October 2008 a new National Counter-Terrorism Alert System was launched in Australia. The current alert level for Australia was not changed.

This page gives information about the new system. Further information is available at the Australian National Security website.

For information about Victoria’s emergency management arrangements, visit the website of the Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner.

What is the Alert System?
The National Counter-Terrorism Alert System is a range of four levels (low, medium, high, extreme) describing an assessed risk of terrorism to Australia.

The National Counter-Terrorism Alert System guides national preparation and planning. It also informs levels of precaution and vigilance to minimise the risk of a terrorist incident occurring.

The Australian Government Counter-Terrorism Committee regularly reviews alert levels, based on assessments of the threat environment.

What’s changed?
The four levels (low, medium, high, extreme) remained the same; the difference is in how they are applied across the nation. Australian governments are now able to change an alert level in a targeted way, and prescribe alert levels for specific jurisdictions, locations or industry sectors, without significantly affecting other areas or communities.

Why did it change?
The previous approach required a ‘one in, all in’ approach. If an alert level was changed for one community, geographic location or sector it would be changed for all.

The previous approach, while comprehensive, could be expensive and onerous for communities and industries not at risk, particularly if requiring an increase in security measures.

The increases in security and resources required to maintain a higher alert level can impact on a community’s ability to maintain core business, keep critical infrastructure operating and maintain public confidence.

What are the benefits?
The new Alert System reduces unnecessary disruptions to everyday life. Impacts are avoided in communities, locations or sectors not affected by the alert level change.

Australian governments are now able to change an alert level in a more targeted way, such as for one or more impacted communities, locations or sectors as required.

Who will communicate a change in alert level?
A change in alert level will be announced by the Prime Minister or First Minister of affected jurisdictions, or their representatives. In Victoria, the Premier or the Premier’s representative will announce a change in alert level.

How does it apply to me?
While the new system may not directly affect your day-to-day life, it is important that you are aware that these arrangements exist. All Australian governments are committed to ensuring that you can have confidence in Australia’s ability to respond to any terrorist risk or situation.