Symptoms of COVID-19 can be like a cold or flu and include fever, coughing, sore throat and shortness of breath.
If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, use a rapid antigen test (RAT) at home and you will have a result in around 15 minutes.
Rapid Antigen Tests
People with concession cards may be able to access free RATS from pharmacies subject to availability. RATS are also available free-of-charge through a limited number of community organisations and at some testing sites.
Follow the instructions on your RAT to conduct the test. Remember to blow your nose and wash your hands first.
If you can’t access a RAT, take a PCR test at a site in your local community. The COVID-19 test is free for everyone at testing centres. This includes people without a Medicare card, such as visitors from overseas, migrant workers and asylum seekers.
If you are positive on either a RAT or PCR test, then you must immediately isolate for seven days and notify your contacts.
Reporting a positive RAT
Report your positive RAT result as soon as you can online, or by calling 1800 675 398. To report your result in a language other than English, call the Coronavirus Hotline at 1800 675 398 and press zero (0) for a translator.
You don’t need to report your result if you tested positive from a PCR test.
Reporting your result gives you access to care and support through the COVID Positive Pathways and allows you to apply for financial support while you isolate and recover.
If you have COVID-19, you can leave isolation after 7 days – you are not required to get tested again.
