Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our products and service.

If you can't find the answer you are looking for, please contact us.

General Questions

Do I have to be elderly to get a MePACS alarm?

Not at all. MePACS isn't just for older people.
Our alarms are used by adults from all walks of life who want the reassurance of knowing help is only a button press away.

Whether you're living with a disability, managing a medical condition, recovering from surgery, going through rehabilitation, or simply looking for extra peace of mind, a MePACS alarm can help you stay independent and connected to emergency support when you need it most.

Can people with hearing difficulties or vision impairment get a MePACS alarm?

MePACS' emergency response rely on two-way voice communication with our monitoring team. Unfortunately our service is not be suitable for people who are profoundly deaf, but may still be accessible for those with hearing difficulties.

Vision impairment is not usually a barrier to using a MePACS alarm. We offer a vibrating pendant option, which is more accessible for people with low vision or blindness.

If you have accessibility requirements, please speak with us so we can discuss the most suitable options for your needs.

What is the minimum age for a MePACS alarm

MePACS alarms are available for people aged 18 and over.
There is no maximum age.

Can I use the alarm when a travelling interstate?

The mobile alarm and the Solo watch work anywhere in Australia where there's a good mobile phone signal. They can be used when when travelling in Australia but will not work overseas.
The home alarm will only work at the address where it is installed.

If you are travelling or moving home, please let us know so that we can keep your details up to date.

Does MePACS have any retail shops?

MePACS does not currently have any stores, however we have partnered with Ability Ease in Victoria, where you can view and try our alarms.

Their showroom is located at:

1/398–400 Ferntree Gully Road (Corner of Blackburn Road)
Notting Hill, Victoria

What is a key safe and do I have to get one?

A key safe is a secure lock box that stores a spare key to your home. It is fitted outside the property, usually on a wall, fence, or another fixed surface, and can only be opened using a unique code.

Having a key safe can help emergency services gain quick access to your home if assistance is needed. Without access to a spare key, emergency services may be delayed or may need to force entry.

You don't have to get a key safe, but it is recommended if you live alone or do not have a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour nearby who can provide access to your home in an emergency.

MePACS securely stores your key safe code on file and will only provide it to you or emergency services when required. You can also choose to share the code with others. For example, if one of your nominated contacts does not have a key to your home, it may be helpful to give them the key safe code so they can assist in an emergency.


Where can I get a key safe
You can purchase a key safe from MePACS for $80, or you can purchase one from most hardware stores.

Learn more about why it's handy to have a key safe here

What happens if I accidentally activate the alarm?

Accidental alarm activations can be quite common, so please don't worry.

MePACS responds to every alarm activation as though it is a genuine emergency to ensure your safety. If your alarm was activated by mistake, simply let us know when we respond that it was accidental and that you are safe and well. We are always happy to know that you are okay.

Are MePACS alarms safe to use with a pacemaker?

MePACS personal alarms comply with Australian Standards in relation to Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) for devices such as pacemakers.

If you have concerns, please consult your medical specialist.

Are all MePACS alarms 4G compatible?

Yes. Our home, mobile and Solo Connect watch alarms all work on the 4G network, ensuring reliable support and fast emergency response.

Home Alarm

How is the home alarm installed?

1. Self install
Set up the alarm yourself in about 15 minutes. It's quick, easy and no tools are needed.
Our Technical Team will talk you through it step by step over the phone.

2. Technician install
A MePACS-approved technician will deliver, install, activate and test the alarm for you.
Installation is by appointment only, usually within 7–10 business days of your application.
For regional areas — Please contact us for price and availability.

Need to reschedule your install appointment?
Please contact our client care team on 1800 451 300.

I'm going away and can't do my Daily Call

If possible, please let us know in advance the dates you will be away. We will place your Home Alarm on standby during that time to avoid disturbing you and your contacts unnecessarily.

If you are unsure when you will be back, we can place the alarm on standby until you advise that you have returned home.

When you return home, please press the button on your pendant, wait by the base unit for us to respond and then say that you are back home.

Can I change the time of the Daily Call reminder?

We can set the daily call reminder for any time between 6am -10:30am.

Please call our Technical Support team on 1800 451 300. Let us know your preferred time and we will change it for you remotely.

Please allow 2-5 business days for the new reminder time to take effect.

Can I take my alarm with me if I move house?

Yes, you can. MePACS operates Australia-wide so you can take your alarm with you when you move.

Before you move, please contact our Client Services team on 1800 451 300 (option 4) to let us know your new address and to arrange installation of your alarm in your new house.

Can I move the base unit to a different location in my house?

Please do not move the base unit by yourself, as it may not work properly.

If you would like to move the base unit to a different spot, please call our Technical Support team for assistance on 1800 451 300 (option 5).

Can I get a new chain for my pendant?

To avoid the pendant chain being a choking hazard, it is designed to break easily. If the chain on your pendant has broken, MePACS will provide you with a new chain free of charge.

Please contact our Technical Support team on 1800 451 300 or email us at mepacs@mepacs.com.au to request a new chain.

Will the battery in my home alarm pendant need to be replaced?

The battery in your pendant should typically last two to three years. As the pendant is waterproof, the battery cannot be replaced.

If the battery runs low, MePACS will be notified automatically and will send you a replacement pendant before the battery runs out.

What happens if I lose my home alarm pendant?

If your pendant is lost, please contact our Technical Support Team on 1800 451 300 and we will arrange a replacement pendant to be sent to you. A small fee applies to cover the cost of the pendant and postage.

If you find the lost original pendant, please contact our Technical Support Team to arrange its return.

What happens if I lose power at my house?

The home alarm has a backup battery and will continue to work as usual for at least 38 hours. Once the power is restored, the alarm will automatically reconnect and the mains light will turn solid green.

In a power outage, the alarm sends MePACS an automatic notification. There is no need to call us. We are already aware and monitoring the situation.

What is the Daily Call service?

The Daily Call service provides extra peace of mind by letting MePACS know you're safe each day. It is only available with the MePACS home alarm.

To check in, simply press the 'Call' button on your home alarm base unit between 6:00 am and 11:00 am each morning. A series of quick beeps will confirm that your check-in has been received.

If you forget to check in, we'll contact you by 3pm to make sure everything is okay. If we can't reach you, we'll contact your nominated emergency contacts. If we're still unable to confirm your safety, we'll arrange a welfare check.

Personal Alert Victoria clients are required to participate in the Daily Call service as part of their funded program.

Can you have two pendants with only one base unit?

Yes, you can.

We can connect up to four pendants to one Home Alarm base unit. Each pendant is programmed to an individual client, so we know who has activated the alarm in the event of an emergency.

Does the Home Alarm work outside the house?

The MePACS Home Alarm is designed to work in and around your home, including your garden. The base unit typically has a range of 50 to 70 metres, although the actual range will vary depending on the size, layout and construction of your home and property.

During installation, the base unit is positioned to maximise coverage, and the alarm's range is tested with you so you know where it will work.

For protection beyond your property's range, we recommend the Mobile Alarm or Solo Connect watch, which can connect you to the MePACS Response Centre anywhere in Australia with 4G coverage.

Mobile Alarm

Does the MePACS Mobile Alarm work on 4G?

Yes. All of our alarms work on the 4G network, ensuring reliable support and fast emergency response.

Is the MePACS Mobile Alarm waterproof?

No, the Mobile Alarm is rain and splash resistant, but not completely waterproof.
Please do not use the Mobile Alarm in the shower, bath or submerge it in water.

Can I purchase the MePACS Mobile Alarm on its own?

To ensure your safety both at home and away, the MePACS Mobile Alarm is only available as a bundle with the MePACS Home Alarm.

It is designed for use whenever you leave the house. When you are at home, place the Mobile Alarm on charge and wear the Home Alarm pendant. The Home Alarm pendant is waterproof, more lightweight and does not require charging, making it a comfortable and practical option for consistent wear around the house.

Do I need a mobile phone to use the MePACS Mobile Alarm?

The MePACS Mobile Alarm has a built-in SIM card, so it does not require you to have a mobile phone. In an emergency, you can talk to MePACS directly through the alarm.

We do however recommend having a phone (mobile or landline) as an alternative option to communicate in an emergency.

Does the MePACS Mobile Alarm work everywhere?

The MePACS Mobile Alarm works on the 4G mobile network. It works anywhere in Australia where there is good 4G coverage.

Unfortunately, as with all mobile devices, in areas with no reception, like black spots, underground car parks, mountainous and rural areas, the alarm will not be able to connect to the network.

Solo Watch Alarm

Does the Solo Watch have geofencing?

No. The Solo watch does not currently have a geofencing function.

What is the Solo Connect watch band made from?

The Solo Connect watch band is made from sweat-resistant fluoroelastomer — a synthetic rubber known for its flexibility and durability.

The band is designed to adjust to the wrist and provide a secure, comfortable fit, even during strenuous activities. It also features an air pocket design for added comfort and a secure fit.

Can the Solo watch store my medical information?

The Solo watch cannot store medical information. Instead, MePACS keeps you medical history and other relevant health data on your file, which is stored securely to protect your privacy.

In an emergency, we will provide all the relevant information to emergency services so that they can tailor and prioritise their response accordingly.

Can I get the MePACS software installed on my smartwatch?

The MePACS software is designed specifically for the Solo Connect watch. It cannot be installed on an other smartwatches.

Does the MePACS Solo fasten with a clasp or hook and eye?

The MePACS Solo watch fastens with a hook and eye. If you prefere a different wristband, you can purchase compatible ones at many retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, Telstra and Harvey Norman.

Can I install other apps on the Solo watch?

The Solo watch comes with a range of health and wellness apps.

Other apps cannot be installed on the because they can interfere with the MePACS emergency response software that's on the watch.

Will the Solo watch fit on a small or large wrist?

The wristband on the Solo watch is adjustable, so you can find a fit that's comfortable for you.

If you prefer a different wristband, you can purchase compatible wristbands at many retailers, including Telstra, JB Hi-Fi or Harvey Norman. The wristband must be compatible with the correct Samsung Galaxy Watch.

Can I change the clock on the Solo watch to 24-hour time?

The Solo watch is programmed for 12-hour time only. This setting cannot be changed.

Will the Solo watch work anywhere in Australia?

In areas with poor or no mobile reception, the Solo watch won’t be able to send an alert or connect to the MePACS emergency response centre. It will still function normally as a watch.

If you live more than 1km from a Telstra mobile tower, we strongly recommend adding the MePACS Home Alarm to ensure you remain safe at home.

Can the Solo watch be programmed to call my son or daughter?

The Solo watch is designed solely for fast emergency response and can only connect to the MePACS response centre. This ensures you receive help as quickly as possible during an emergency.

The watch cannot be programmed to call other phone numbers or Triple Zero.

Can you send and receive calls and texts on the Solo watch?

The Solo watch is a dedicated personal alarm device and can only connect to the MePACS emergency response team. It cannot be used to make or receive phone calls and text messages.

Can I purchase the Solo watch at a retail store?

The Solo watch is exclusive to MePACS and cannot be purchased at a retail store. It can only be purchased directly through MePACS.
To purchase a Solo Connect watch, please call us on 1800 685 329.

Do I need a mobile phone to have the Solo watch?

The Solo watch works on its own and does not need a mobile phone to operate.

However, as part of our duty of care, MePACS requires all Solo watch clients to have a mobile phone. This ensures we have a backup way to contact you in an emergency.

Can the Solo watch be paired to a phone?

No. The Solo watch cannot be paired with a mobile phone or any other device.The Bluetooth function has been disabled because it can interfere with the MePACS emergency software on the watch.

Can I set medication reminders on the watch?

No. The Solo watch does not have a medication reminder function.

Can you locate a person using the GPS on the Solo watch?

The Solo watch’s GPS can share the user’s location with MePACS, but we can only access it in a genuine emergency due to privacy regulations.

To protect the client’s privacy, family members and nominated contacts cannot connect to the Solo Connect watch or view its GPS location.

Please note that MePACS does not track clients. We only access and pass on location details to emergency services if there is a concern for the client’s safety or wellbeing.

Can I wear the Solo watch if I have a pacemaker?

All MePACS products comply with the Australian Standards in relation to Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) for devices such as pacemakers.
If you have concerns, please speak to your GP or health specialist.

If I change my mind, can I return Solo watch?

The Solo Watch can be returned for a refund within 14 days of activation. To be eligible, the device must be returned in its original condition, with all original packaging and accessories included.

Once your Solo Watch is activated, we recommend testing it around your home and in the places you visit most often to ensure there is reliable mobile network coverage and that the device works as expected.

How is the Solo Connect Watch different from an Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch?

The Solo Connect Watch, Apple Watch and Samsung Galaxy Watch share some features, including fall detection, GPS and two-way voice communication. However, they are designed for different purposes.

Apple and Samsung watches are primarily smartwatches, designed for communication, apps and everyday convenience. While they offer some emergency features, these generally rely on notifying nominated contacts or calling Triple Zero.

The Solo Connect Watch is a dedicated personal alarm, designed specifically for fast access help during an emergency. At the press of a button, it connects you directly to the MePACS 24/7 emergency response team, where trained operators assess the situation and arrange the right assistance.

If emergency services are required, MePACS can provide responders with important information such as your medical conditions, allergies and medications, so they can prioritise and tailor their care. We also notify your nominated contacts and stay in contact with you until help arrives.

In short:
Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch: Smartwatch with emergency features.
Solo Connect Watch: Dedicated personal alarm with reliable 24/7 monitored emergency response.

Can a couple living together get one Solo watch?

Yes. You can use a shared Solo watch when you’re away from home.

However, we strongly recommend adding a Home Alarm with two pendants to ensure you stay safe while at home.

How long will the battery last on the Solo watch?

The Solo watch has a battery life of around 10–12 hours, depending on how it’s used and the strength of mobile reception. It takes approximately 3–4 hours to fully charge from flat.

Several factors can reduce battery life, including:

  • Low mobile reception (the watch uses more power searching for a signal)
  • Using the health apps
  • Exposure to very hot or very cold temperatures

Can someone else raise an alert on the Solo watch if I can't?

Yes. Anyone who has access to your watch can raise an emergency alert. This means that if you are unconscious, someone nearby can press the alert button on your behalf.

How does the fall detection on the watch work?

The Solo watch uses built‑in sensors to detect sudden changes in movement or orientation that may indicate a fall. It has five sensors designed to pick up rapid changes in motion, speed, or sudden shocks. However, the sensors may not detect all types of falls — for example, slow slides or slumps to the floor, or falls that are cushioned by an object like a chair.

While falls detection isn’t foolproof, wearing the Solo watch still means you can easily get help. To make sure an alert is raised after a fall, we recommend tapping the alert icon manually if you have experienced a fall.

To learn more about how falls detection works in MePACS alarms visit our Falls Detection Guide.

Does the Solo Connect store my medical information?

The MePACS Solo Connect personal alarm watch does not store your personal medical information.

MePACS securely keeps your medical history, allergies and other relevant health information on file. In an emergency, we provide relevant health information to Triple Zero, so they can prioritise the call and tailor their response to your needs.

Can I install other apps on the Solo watch?

The MePACS Solo Connect personal alarm watch comes with a select range of health apps.

As it is a dedicated personal alarm device, other apps cannot be installed because they can interfere with the MePACS emergency response software.

Can I use the Solo watch like a mobile phone?

The MePACS Solo Connect personal alarm watch is a dedicated personal alarm device, so does not have all the functinality of a smartwatch.

It cannot connect to a mobile phone to send or receive personal messages, calls or emails; and it is not an entertainment device. The Solo Connect is exclusively designed for direct two-way communication with the MePACS emergency response team.

How do I turn up the volume on the watch?

On the Samsung Galaxy Watch3, you can increase the volume on the watch by turning the bezel around, but only while you are talking to MePACS.

On the Solo Connect watch, the volume is already at the maximum level and cannot be increased.

Can I wear the Solo watch in the shower?

Yes. The Solo Connect watch is water‑resistant with an IP68 rating. It can be worn in the bath, shower, or pool, and can be used in up to 1.5 metres of water for up to 30 minutes.

We strongly recommend wearing the watch in the shower, as it’s an area where falls are more likely. Water droplets may occasionally trigger the watch by accident, but we don’t mind — it lets us know you’re safe.

Monitoring Service

How quickly will someone respond when I press my alarm?

When you activate your alarm, the alert is sent to the MePACS Response Team. Our trained emergency response monitors respond as quickly as possible, usually within less than 2 minutes.

Our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays, so help is always available when you need it.

Is there a minimum term contract?

No. MePACS does not have minimum term or lock-in contracts.

You can cancel the service any time without penalties or additional charges.

What does it mean to put my alarm on standby?

If you'll be away from home for an extended period, such as on holiday, staying with family, or in hospital or respite care, you can place your alarm on standby.
This lets MePACS know that you won't be at your usual address and helps us keep your records up to date.

While your alarm is on standby, your monitoring service remains active and regular fees continue to apply.
This means that if the alarm is activated while you're away, MePACS will still receive the alert and respond as required.

To place your alarm on standby, complete this online form or call 1800 451 300 a day or two before you leave.

Can I get funding for a MePACS Personal Alarm?

There are several government programs that provide funding for personal alarms.
The level of funding will depend on your eligibility and approval criteria.

MePACS is an approved provider for the following government-funded programs:

- Support at Home
- NDIS
- Personal Alert Victoria (PAV)
- Personal Alert AssistanceSA (PAASA)

More information on funding options can be found here, or contact our Sales team on 1800 685 329 for assistance.

Do I have to pay for calls from the alarm?

No. All calls from the alarm are already included in our monthly service fee. There will be no additional call charges.

Can I add or remove a nominated contact?

Yes, but adding or removing a nominated contact always requires the client's approval.

If a nominated contact holds Power of Attorney and MePACS has received the relevant documentation, they can also authorise changes to nominated contacts on the client's behalf.

Can I list other people who I would like to be contacted in an emergency?

Yes, you can. In addition to your nominated contacts, you can also list other people, such as family members, as Information Only contacts. They will be advised of any emergency event concerning your wellbeing.

How does the MePACS service work?

The MePACS emergency response service operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year. We are always available to help when you need it. Our goal is to ensure you are safe and well by getting you the right help quickly and efficiently in an emergency.

If you feel unwell, experience a fall, medical event or other sort of emergency, simply press the button on your alarm device. This will send an alert to the MePACS response centre, and a trained monitor will respond within two minutes and talk to you through the alarm.

The monitor will assess the situation, provide reassurance and determine the actions required. If emergency services are required, we will provide them with all vital information so they can tailor and prioritise their response accordingly. We will also inform your close contacts of the situation and stay in touch with you until help arrives, because your safety and wellbeing are our priority.

If I go away, do I have to let MePACS know?

If you go away from home for more than a day, it is important to let MePACS know so that we can update your file and avoid disturbing you and your contacts unnecessary. When you return home, simply press the button on your Home Alarm pendant, wait for our response and then say that you are back home.

To let us know that you will be away, please submit this online standby request or call us on 1800 451 300 and speak to our Client Services team.

If you have a MePACS Mobile alarm or Solo Connect watch, you can take them with you anywhere in Australia. They will work wherever there is 4G coverage. Just remember to take the charger with you!

What are nominated contacts and how many do I need?

Nominated contacts are people who you trust and who are capable of providing assistance or conduct welfare checks. They can be family members, friends or trusted neighbours and should be well known to you.

Ideally, they should live no further than 30-45 minutes from your home and should have a key to your home. Alternatively, you may choose to have a key safe for easy shared access.

You can choose up to three people as your nominated contacts.

Technical Questions

Do MePACS personal alarms come with a warranty?

The mobile alarm and Solo watch come with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty.

The home alarms remain the property of MePACS — so any faults or issues will be repaired by our Technical Support team.

Do I need a landline for a personal alarm?

No. A landline phone is not required to have a MePACS personal alarm.

All MePACS alarms work independently on the 4G mobile network, so there's no need for a landline, home internet or the NBN.

Are MePACS alarms compatible with 4G technology?

All MePACS alarms are compatible with 4G technology and our 4G devices work alongside the 5G network.

Even though 5G networks are being rolled out, they will NOT replace 4G.
The 4G and 5G networks will continue to work together to provide the best coverage across Australia.

What happens if there is a power outage?

In the event of a power failure, your alarm will continue to work, as follows:

Home Alarm
The home alarm has a back-up battery that can power the alarm for 38+ hours.

Mobile Alarm and Solo Watch
the Mobile alarm and Solo watch will continue to work until their battery runs out. We recommend keeping them on charge when not in use to ensure maximum battery life when required.

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How can we help?

By phone
Existing clients, please call
1800 451 300
For sales enquiries, please call
1800 685 329
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Existing clients, please email
mepacs@mepacs.com.au
For sales enquiries, please email
sales@mepacs.com.au
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