Mandatory SMS Sender ID Registration
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is introducing new regulations to strengthen SMS security and reduce scams. If your organisation uses alphanumeric SMS Sender IDs through GoFax, you’ll need to take action before 15 December 2025, when the new rules are expected to come into effect.
Important: ACMA plans to finalise the supporting rules by 30 September 2025. The information below reflects the proposed framework. GoFax will provide confirmed details as soon as they are available.
Why ACMA are implementing mandatory registration?
SMS scams remain a major threat in Australia, with fraudsters frequently impersonating trusted brands using fake Sender IDs such as “myGov” or “AusPost.” In 2024 alone, SMS scams accounted for 31% of all reported scams, causing losses of more than $14 million.
To combat this, the government has introduced the Telecommunications (SMS Sender ID Register) Industry Standard. This initiative requires businesses to register and verify their Sender IDs, ensuring consumers can trust the messages they receive.
What Is the SMS Sender ID Register?
The Sender ID Register will be a national database managed by ACMA. Its purpose is to:
- Authenticate Sender IDs used by legitimate businesses.
- Stop scammers from spoofing brand names.
- Improve consumer confidence in SMS communications.
Major Sender ID Changes
1. Numeric-Only Sender IDs Will Be Prohibited
If you currently use a number-only Sender ID, you’ll need to create a new sender ID to meet the new sender ID requirements. Or the simplest solution is to upgrade to a dedicated virtual mobile number, which also enables two-way messaging.
2. Sender ID Format Requirements
- Length: 2–11 characters
- Allowed: Letters, numbers, and standard ASCII symbols
- Cannot be digits only
- No leading/trailing spaces or underscores
- No restricted or misleading terms
- Case-insensitive (e.g., “ABC” = “abc”)
Who must register?
Any organisation using a custom alphanumeric Sender ID (e.g. “MyBrand”) for SMS to Australian numbers.
What information is required?
- Sender ID (up to 11 characters)
- ABN or proof of business identity
- Valid use case (e.g. notifications, reminders)
What you should do now to prepare
- Review your current Sender IDs and confirm they meet ACMA’s format rules.
- Ensure your business details (ABN, contact info) are accurate.
- Watch for GoFax updates on when registration opens.
- If you resell GoFax services, please prepare to inform your customers about these changes.
Need Help? Contact our support team
We will continue to keep you informed as soon as ACMA finalises the rules and registration process. GoFax customers can expect regular updates from GoFax via email.
