New rules for organisations sending text messages

New rules apply to organisations sending branded text messages from 1 July 2026. Organisations that send out these messages via text must register on the new SMS Sender ID Register.

This will enable the recipient to see an organisation's sender ID at the top of the text message and provide comfort that it is a valid text message. Messages sent from 1 July where an organisation has not registered will be displayed as "unverified".

The changes are in response to the $13+m Australians lost in text message scams in the first nine months of 2025.  

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has more information on how to register (to be done via your telco or message provider).

If your organisation does not send out branded text messages, no action is required.

Disclaimer: This does not purport to be comprehensive or to render legal advice. You should not act based on any information contained in this publication without first obtaining specific professional advice. Consult your legal advisor to determine if this applies to you.