COVID-19 testing
6-minute read
If you develop symptoms such as severe shortness of breath or chest pain, call triple zero (000) immediately. Tell the phone operator and the paramedics on arrival if you have COVID-19.
COVID-19 testing and reporting in Australia
COVID-19 testing rules have changed in most states and territories. For example, you no longer need a PCR test to confirm a positive result from a rapid antigen test (RAT) and you don’t need to report a positive RAT in most states.
When should I get tested for COVID-19?
You should get tested for COVID-19 if you have:
- symptoms of the illness — even if your symptoms are mild, or
- been advised to do so by your doctor or other health professional
If you are at higher risk of severe illness, you should speak with your doctor and plan for what to do if you become sick with COVID-19.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.
Which COVID-19 test should I use?
There are 2 types of tests used to diagnose COVID-19 in Australia: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and rapid antigen tests (RATs).
Talk to your doctor about which test is right for you. If you test positive for COVID-19, ask if your doctor recommends antiviral medicines or other treatments.
Rapid antigen test
Most people can check if they have COVID-19 by doing a rapid antigen test (RAT) at home. If you get a positive RAT result and you’re at high risk of getting very sick with COVID-19, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
RATs detect the presence of proteins of the virus. They are more accurate if you have symptoms, so it’s better to take the test as soon as you have symptoms.
RATs return a result within 10 to 20 minutes. It's important to follow the instructions on the packet to get an accurate result.
You can buy RATs online or at pharmacies and supermarkets. They usually cost between $10 and $15 per test, but they may be free in some states for concession card holders.
PCR
Your doctor might want you to get a PCR test.
PCR tests are a type of nucleic acid test. They detect the presence of the genetic material of the virus that causes COVID-19. PCR tests are good at detecting the virus early, sometimes before you get any symptoms.
PCR tests are free. They can be done by your doctor, or your doctor might refer you to a pathology clinic.
If you’re concerned about your symptoms and your usual doctor isn’t available, you can use the Service Finder to find another one near you, or call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse.
If you cannot leave your home because you have a disability and need a PCR test, you can call the Disability Gateway helpline. Call 1800 643 787, Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm (AET), except on national public holidays.
For more information, visit disabilitygateway.gov.au.
What happens if my test is positive for COVID-19?
If you test positive for COVID-19, you should stay at home until your symptoms go away to protect others.
If you’ve been told by your doctor that you should take antiviral medicines if you ever test positive to COVID-19, contact them straight away.
Contact your doctor or health service if you're aged 65 or over, pregnant, have any chronic conditions or have any concerns about your health.
If your usual doctor isn’t available, you can use the Service Finder to find another one near you, or call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse.
Learn more about how to manage COVID-19. Also learn about isolation recommendations.
It’s no longer a requirement to register a positive RAT in most states.
Related topics
COVID-19 symptoms
Learn to recognise mild, moderate and severe symptoms of COVID-19, and when to seek medical advice from your GP or another healthcare professional.
Treating COVID-19
People with a mild case of COVID-19 can treat their symptoms in a similar way to how they treat a seasonal flu. Here's how to relieve symptoms at home and how to monitor your symptoms.