PM announces major change to COVID-19 testing rules and free rapid tests for some Australians

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has altered the national COVID-19 testing requirements due to a shortage of rapid antigen tests (RATs) and lengthy waits for PCR tests.

PCR tests are no longer needed to confirm positive rapid antigen test results.

“If you had a rapid antigen test and it is positive, you do not need to get a PCR test to confirm that,” he said.

Seven-day rolling tests will no longer be required for truck drivers, and the requirement for a second test post-arrival for those arriving from overseas has also been ditched.

Free rapid antigen tests will be provided to people who hold a seniors card, health care card, low income card, pension concession card, DVA gold card or DVA white card. Up to 10 free tests will be available via pharmacies to each concession holder over a three month period, with a maximum of five available within a month.

“We hope to be able to do that in the next fortnight, and I do hope we’re able to do it sooner than that,” Mr Morrison said.

The Prime Minister says universal free access was “not considered the right policy response by all of the states and territories” at national cabinet today.

Image: Nine