How long until my custom sender ID is ready to use?
Once you've completed the final step of registering your custom sender ID, it usually takes up to 24 hours before it's ready to use.
When does the 24-hour period start?
The clock starts once you've completed the last step of the registration process — whichever applies to your application:
- Confirming in ACMA Assist — if you were directed to the government's ACMA Assist portal, the period begins once you confirm the registration of your sender ID there. ACMA Assist will then show a Registered by <date> <time> — the date and time your sender ID will be ready to use.
- Mobile Message fast-track verification — if you completed our internal fast-track ID process, the period begins as soon as you finish that verification.
Why does it take 24 hours?
After your registration is complete, the mobile networks need time to update their systems so they'll accept your sender ID. This is a standard part of the process across every Australian carrier, and it applies to all custom (business name) sender IDs.
What you'll see
Your custom sender ID won't appear in the From dropdown on the Send Messages page until the 24-hour period is complete. This is normal — there's nothing missing or wrong with your application while you wait.
Once the period finishes, your sender ID appears in the dropdown automatically, and you can select it and send just like any other sender.
Still not showing after 24 hours?
If your sender ID still isn't available after the time it's due — for ACMA Assist applications, that's the Registered by date and time shown in the portal; for fast-track applications, more than 24 hours after you finished verifying — email us and we'll check the status of your application for you.