Qld border requirements: $150 PCR test may be scrapped

A controversial $150 Covid-19 test that would be required to enter Queensland even for the fully vaccinated is now under review. VOTE IN OUR POLL

Health authorities are considering scrapping a requirement that would force visitors to Queensland to fork out $150 for a Covid-19 test, with acting Chief Health Officer Peter Aitken conceding it would be a challenge.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles defended the requirement, which would force fully vaccinated people who want to visit Queensland from an interstate hotspot from December 17 to have received a negative test result in the 72 hours prior.

Currently this includes people living in border communities who would need to travel to Queensland for work or other purposes, and Queenslanders wanting to visit northern NSW.

Queensland’s embattled tourism industry this week implored the Government to reconsider, saying it would be yet another multimillion-dollar blow.

Dr Aitken said health authorities were considering scrapping the requirement or making the test free.

“We recognise that... enormous challenge for people, for police, and it’s a discussion we’re having as to ensuring that double-vaccinated people have greater access,” he said.

The tests are free for anyone with symptoms, however Medicare does not cover the cost for travel purposes.

Mr Miles urged the Commonwealth to consider making the tests eligible for a Medicare rebate.

Pressed on whether it was ridiculous to expect a family of four to fork out $600 for tests, Mr Miles said that at the moment it was difficult to come to Queensland.

“I don’t think anything in our plans here are ridiculous,” he said.

“They’re all designed to keep Queenslanders safe.”

Asked whether he thought $600 was a deal breaker for most families, Mr Miles said not necessarily.

And asked whether the cost could deter people from coming to Queensland, Mr Miles said it would be a consideration.

Acting Chief Health Officer Peter Aitken (front) with Deputy Premier Steven Miles today. Picture: Richard Walker