The Victorian State Government is ordering a further 166 million Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs), building on its initial bulk order of 44 million.
More than 4.5 million extra tests have landed in Victoria already this week, in addition to the 3 million tests which arrived on Sunday.
The distribution of free RATs is helping to reduce the pressure on the PCR testing system, where turnaround times are improving – with more than 80 per cent of PCR tests now being returned to Victorians within 24 hours of getting tested.
Premier Daniel Andrews said that RATs were forming a key element of Victoria’s defence against the pandemic.
“There are two critical ways we can drive our Covid-19 numbers down –get your third vaccine dose to better protect yourself and the community and isolate if you test positive on a rapid test or a PCR.”
More than 2.2 million RATs will have been distributed to health workers, staff in sensitive settings and vulnerable communities by the end of the week.
Victoria’s health services have been prioritised in the delivery of RATs, in order for staff at hospitals and GP respiratory clinics can continue to work safely.
More than 50 community organisations have received RATs so far, including in priority settings such as community health sites, disability support services, Aboriginal community organisations, family support centres, mental health services and regional centres.
Since the RAT reporting system opened on Friday 7 January, 179,207 Victorians have reported a positive result either via the coronavirus website or by phone.
If you test positive on a RAT, you must report your positive result to the Department of Health by visiting www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/report or calling 1800 675 398. Those needing help in a language other than English can dial 0 for translations.
