SMS: Sender ID Requirements Overview

From 1 July 2026, new rules mean texts sent with an organisation’s name at the top of a message (known as a branded sender ID) will need to have the Sender ID registered with ACMA.

Overview of the ACMA Rules

Upcoming changes to SMS messaging

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is introducing new national rules that change how organisations send branded text messages (SMS) in Australia. These changes are known as the SMS Sender ID Register and will apply from 1 July 2026. More information.

What is changing?

When Councils or Services send text messages, the sender name you see at the top of the message (for example, a council or service name) is called a sender ID.

Under the new rules:

·    Organisations that use a sender ID must register it through their telecommunications or messaging provider

·    If a sender ID is not registered, messages may be labelled as “Unverified” or blocked altogether

The changes are designed to reduce text message scams and stop criminals from pretending to be trusted organisations. These rules apply to all organisations across Australia, including local government.

EnrolNow recommendation

Whilst holistically most organisations will probably register their sender ID, for SMS from EnrolNow suggest you consider sending from a dedicated number rather than a Sender ID. This will ensure higher security and also mean you won't have to manage Sender ID registration for SMS sent from EnrolNow.

Please note you do have a choice:

OPTION 1: SenderID - this is a named alpha sender (eg. CouncilNameKinder), whilst it is named to the SMS receiver it is sent from a shared number (in the SMS system). No additional cost. 
SMS: ACMA Sender ID Registration

OPTION 2: Dedicated Number - all SMS are sent from a numerical number that you have purchased, it is unique to your organisation. An alpha Sender ID can not be attached to a dedicated number (eg. the SMS will be received from a number). A dedicated number costs $15 per month, invoiced to your Transmit account. EnrolNow recommends this option.

SMS: Selecting and Activating a Dedicated SMS number

OPTION 3: Shared Number - this is the default EnrolNow setting. All SMS will be sent from a number that is shared with other SMS senders. There is no cost and no Sender ID registration required.