Getting tested for the Coronavirus
You should get tested for COVID-19 if:
There are two ways you can get tested for COVID-19.
1.PCR Test
A PCR test is when a doctor or nurse takes a swab from your nose or throat and sends it to a lab to get tested.
You can book in for a PCR test by booking into a testing centre in your state or territory or talking to your doctor.
You should receive results within 1 – 5 days after you have a PCR test. You will receive your results by phone or text.
If your test is positive, you will be told to isolate from others for a certain about of time.
This means you must stay home. You cannot go out until the end of the isolation time.
2. A Rapid Antigen Test (RAT)
A Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) is a test you can do at home. It involves putting a swab in your nose.
You will have the results within 15 minutes.
If your test is positive, you will need to isolate for certain amount of time.
This means you must stay home. You cannot go out until the end of the isolation time.
You can buy Rapid Antigen Tests from some chemists and supermarkets.
Some hospitals and testing centres also give them out for free.
For more information, download the following fact sheet:
