What is the SMS/MMS Sender ID Register and what does it mean?

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What is a “sender ID”?

A sender ID is the name that shows at the top of a text message, like MyBank, MATE or AusPost, instead of a mobile number. It helps you quickly see who’s messaging you. It’s not a phone number, it’s a name tag for the sender.

Why is there a new register?

From 1 July 2026, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) introduced a new SMS/MMS Sender ID Register to help protect Australians from scam texts. Here’s how it works:

Only verified sender names appear as normal.
Messages from unregistered sender names show as Unverified, so you know to be cautious.

This aims to reduce scam messages pretending to be from trusted brands like banks, telcos or government services.

What does this mean for you?

Not much. Here’s what to expect:

Messages from registered sender names look and behave just like normal.
Messages from unregistered names say Unverified, which could be a scam (but not always).
Some legit businesses may still be getting set up, so not all unverified messages are dodgy.

💡 Tip: The Sender ID Register is just one way to stay protected from scams. Always look out for suspicious links or requests for personal info.

Will this change which SMS messages I get?

For most people, no. You’ll still receive texts from your bank, telco or other trusted services if they’ve registered their sender IDs.

If not, their messages will still come through but will be marked Unverified. Over time, this will help reduce spoofed messages pretending to be big brands.

Do I need to do anything?

Nope, you don’t need to lift a finger. But here are some smart tips:

Look out for Unverified tags and think twice before clicking any links.
Use the scam filters built into your phone where possible.
Report dodgy messages to Scamwatch or your mobile provider.

💡 Tip: If you ever get a suspicious message claiming to be from us, don’t click anything. Reach out to us first to check it’s legit.

What if a trusted sender doesn’t register?

If a legit sender, like your bank or power company, hasn’t registered their name, you’ll probably still get their messages, but they’ll show up as Unverified.

We’re already working with our partners to make sure all our sender names are registered, so there’s no disruption for you.

Will this stop scam texts completely?

Not entirely, but it’s a big step forward. The register helps block scammers pretending to be trusted brands, though some might still use random numbers or other tricks. That’s why it’s important to stay alert and use any other scam-protection tools your phone offers.

Key dates

15 October 2025: Telcos and message providers could start joining the register.
30 November 2025: Businesses using sender names (like “MyBank”) needed to register them through a telco.
1 July 2026: Only registered sender IDs appear as verified. Unregistered ones are marked Unverified.