If you are sending SMS to Australian numbers using an Alphanumeric Sender ID (Alpha Tag) and have noticed behaviour has changed, this article explains why this is happening and how to restore your custom Sender ID.
Quick Summary
As of July 1st, 2026, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) requires that all Alphanumeric Sender IDs (Alpha Tags) must be formally registered and approved before sending SMS to Australian mobile numbers.
⚠️ Important: This is an industry-wide, government-mandated regulatory requirement across Australia, not just a ClickSend policy.
We've sent email notifications to the primary email address on your account and posted dashboard alerts to help all users prepare ahead of the July 1st deadline.
Yet to get it done, or have questions? We're here to help you get registered.
How to restore your Alphanumeric Sender ID
To resume sending under your custom business name (Alpha Tag), you must complete the official ACMA registration. Once approved, your custom sending capabilities will automatically resume.
What Happens When Alpha Tags Are Unregistered or Unconfirmed?
If an Alpha Tag is unregistered or unconfirmed, SMS messages may be blocked or marked as "Unverified." To avoid this, consider using a dedicated number as the sender ID instead of an unverified Alpha Tag. Additionally, some service providers implement fallback mechanisms, such as routing messages through shared or dedicated numbers, to ensure delivery.
What Happens If You Delete an Alpha Tag?
Deleting an Alpha Tag removes it from your account entirely, and it cannot be reused without submitting a new application. After deletion, messages will no longer be sent with that Alpha Tag. Depending on your account setup, fallback mechanisms like shared or dedicated numbers may be used to deliver messages.
Managing SMS Delivery When Alpha Tags Are Pending or Unregistered
When Alpha Tags are pending approval or unregistered, service providers often use fallback mechanisms like Smart Senders to ensure message delivery. For example, messages may be routed through a compliant alternative, such as a dedicated number. To manage sender settings effectively:
Navigate to your account’s sender management section.
Select the preferred fallback sender (e.g., a dedicated number).
Save the settings to ensure consistent message delivery.
For a detailed step-by-step walkthrough of the registration process with screenshots, please read our main guide:
Need help during this transition? Contact our support team 24/7 via the live chat in your dashboard or email us at support@clicksend.com.