State government to give free rapid Covid tests to concession card-holders
The state government has reversed its position on free RATs – and is pleading for people to wear masks indoors when with other people.
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Free Covid RAT tests for vulnerable people is at the centre of a new SA attack plan to fight the latest wave of the virus.
And South Australia will contribute 50 per cent or $8m to help the federal government extend the pandemic leave payment until September 30.
Concession card-holders will be allowed 10 free RATs over a three-month period, at an as-yet-unknown cost to the taxpayer.
Deputy Premier Susan Close announced the initiatives on Saturday afters a national cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, which heard Covid cases are expected to peak next month.
Ms Close said the leave payment of $750 – which had ended on June 30 – would incentivise workers to do the right thing and isolate if they had the virus.
“There is also a recommendation that we wear masks when indoors and with other people and I urge people to take that very serious,’’ she said.
“You must get your vaccination up to date. If you are eligible (over 30) get your fourth vaccination.”
The original free RAT scheme was introduced by the Morrison government in January and due to end on August 1.
Only on Tuesday had the government controversially cancelled the scheme, because it cost taxpayers $16 million each week nationally.
The state government had refused to pick up the cost.
The measures announced on Saturday came after medical experts warned the BA. 5 strain is up to ten times more contagious than previous Covid strains and is already the most dominant strain in Australia.
Free RATs are available from participating community pharmacies, listed on the Pharmacy Guild of Australia’s website.
Greens MLC Robert Simms said: “It’s terrific that the government has heard the call from the Greens and the community and will step up to provide free RATs for concession cardholders. During this cost of living crisis, this kind of support can make all the difference for people who are struggling”.
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