COVID-19 testing

Test if you have any COVID-19 symptoms and you’re at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. 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 , it is important to test early in your illness as you may be eligible for oral antiviral medications. These medications are most effective when started early during your infection.

Speak to your GP, 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.

If you have any COVID-19 symptoms and are not at higher risk of severe illness you should:

  • stay at home until your symptoms are gone and you are feeling much better
  • consider a rapid antigen test (RAT)
  • avoid visiting high-risk settings like hospitals, and aged or disability care facilities
  • contact your GP or regular medical practitioner if you need medical advice.

Call triple zero (000) straight away or present to your nearest Emergency Department if your symptoms are worsening and you are concerned, especially if you are experiencing:

  • increasing shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • dizziness or feeling like you might faint when standing
  • problems tolerating oral fluids (for example not keeping down water or rehydration solutions).

Tell the phone operator you’ve been diagnosed with COVID-19, have severe symptoms and need an ambulance.

Where to get rapid antigen tests

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

RATs are available for purchase 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.

Some home self-tests can detect the presence of COVID-19, influenza and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These tests are like other COVID-19 RATs but can indicate if someone has influenza A or B, or RSV.

Always check and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for correct use and ensure the RATs are not expired. You can dispose of used or expired RATs in your household waste.

Information about the brands of RAT tests approved for use in Australia, and manufacturers, is available from the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

Where to get PCR testing for COVID-19 in the ACT

You should only get a PCR if you’ve been recommended by a health professional to get one.

You will need to have a pathology request form from a health professional to get a PCR test. You can then access a test at pathology collection centres across Canberra.

You can use Healthdirect’s Find a health service tool to find a collection centre near you. Please call your preferred collection centre prior to arrival. Please wear a mask when attending collection centres.

Additional support to get a PCR test

People who may need additional support can attend the Weston Creek ACT Pathology collection centre to get PCR testing in one of the Access and Sensory rooms. Please consider attending this service outside of our peak times, such as between 10am and 12pm. More information is available on the Canberra Health Services website.

Other pathology collection centres in the ACT may be able to provide services for people with individual needs and their carers. Call the pathology collection centre you plan to attend and chat with them about your specific requirements.

What do I do if I get a positive RAT or PCR test result?

See Information for people who test positive for COVID-19 page.

acknowledgement icon
Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.

Last Updated: January 31 2024