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In this guide you will find an overview of frequently asked questions regarding the impact of the new ACMA SMS Sender ID rules on Timely reminder and appointment messages in Australia.
Timely note: the new ACMA SMS rules effective 1 July 2026 will not affect your Timely reminder or appointment messages. No action is needed from you, your messages will continue to send and arrive as usual.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is changing?
From 1 July 2026, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is introducing new anti-scam rules under the SMS Sender ID Register.The rules apply to branded sender IDs, which is the business name shown at the top of a text instead of a phone number (for example, "AusPost" or "Med-Appt"). From 1 July, messages sent using unregistered branded sender IDs will display the word "Unverified" instead of the business name, and will be grouped with other unregistered senders, including potential scams.
- Why are people talking about it?
Branded sender IDs are widely used for appointment reminders and billing, so the change has prompted questions from business owners who want to know if their reminders will still reach clients. If you have seen this raised in community groups or news coverage, that is why.
- Who does it affect?
It affects businesses that send texts using a branded sender ID, such as some dentists, GPs, solicitors, schools and childcare centres. It does not affect Timely customers. Timely does not use branded sender IDs, so your account is outside the scope of these rules.
- Where do your Timely messages come from?
Your reminder and appointment messages are sent from a standard Australian mobile number, not a business name. Because the rules only apply to branded sender IDs, messages sent from a standard number fall outside the register and are unaffected.
- How do you need to prepare?
There is no action required and no change to how your reminders work. Your messages will keep sending and arriving exactly as they do now.