28 February 2023

The ACT Government has announced new COVID-19 testing arrangements for Canberrans. These changes come into effect from Wednesday, 1 March 2023.

All Canberrans will still have access to free and effective COVID-19 testing options.

You can be prepared by knowing what to do if you develop COVID-19 symptoms and what type of COVID-19 testing is right for you.

COVID-19 testing arrangements from 1 March

Test if you have any COVID-19 symptoms. You can test with a rapid antigen test (RAT) or have a PCR test.

If you’re at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 speak to your GP now, so you have a plan if you develop COVID-19 symptoms.

Ask them about COVID-19 testing, eligibility for antivirals and how to access them if you test positive.

Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

Most Canberrans, including children supervised by an adult, can use a RAT to test for COVID-19.

In the ACT, anyone can collect free RATs from:

RATs are also available at Canberra Health Services facilities, including hospitals, Walk-in Centres and health centres, where visitors are encouraged to do a RAT before entering

RATS are also available from retailers, such as pharmacies, supermarkets, and other retail stores.

Don’t attend these locations if you are unwell. Plan ahead and have a RAT at home before you need it.

Always check and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for correct use.

PCR Testing

Some people will be recommended, by their GP or treating health professional, to get a PCR test if they have COVID-19 symptoms. This might include those who are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness and those unable to use a RAT.

You generally need a pathology form from a primary care provider to get a PCR test at pathology collection centres.

If you are a concession card holder you can get a PCR without a pathology form (i.e., referral).

To eligible for this service, you must have one of the following concessions cards:

  • Pensioner concession card
  • Commonwealth seniors’ health care card
  • Health care card (including Low-income health care card)
  • Department of Veterans’ Affairs gold, white or orange cards
  • ACT Government Service Access Card

If you are not a concession card holder, you must have a pathology form from your primary care provider to get a PCR test.

The locations of the participating pathology centres will be listed on the ACT COVID-19 website.

There is no out-of-pocket charge for this service.

What to do if you test positive

Stay at home until your symptoms are gone and you’re feeling much better. Most people can manage their symptoms at home by staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest.

If you’re at higher risk of severe illness follow your management plan, and contact your GP for a telehealth assessment early in your illness. If you don't have a regular GP or can't make an appointment to talk to your GP, call the COVID Care@Home team who can support your care, including access to COVID-19 treatments.

If you test positive on a RAT, please register the result with ACT Health using the Online Declaration form. Although this is no longer mandatory, reporting your positive RAT will help ACT Health connect you to information about COVID-19 care and supports.

Further advice can be found on the Information for people who test positive for COVID-19 page on the COVID-19 website.

What to do if you test negative

Stay at home until your symptoms are gone and you’re feeling much better.

If you tested negative on a RAT, but are still symptomatic, you can repeat testing with another RAT in 24-48 hours.