Gold Coasters taking advantage of rapid antigen test supply bungle
Gold Coasters are tapping into the booming medical distribution market as consumers are warned to be wary of private offers to buy tests online.
Gold Coast
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GOLD Coasters are taking advantage of the federal government’s rapid antigen test (RAT) supply bungle by tapping into the booming medical distribution market.
A new website called Gold Coast Rapid Antigen Tests has launched online, offering what it claims are the city’s “most accessible TGA-approved rapid antigen tests”.
The website advertises bulk RAT supplies, starting at $770 including GST for a box of 50 tests.
It said customers could also buy a half carton of 500 tests or a full carton of 1000 tests.
The Bulletin contacted the website’s administrator for comment, but did not receive a response by deadline.
Elsewhere, Nerang man Josh Browne started advertising the sale of RATs from his home on social media last week.
Mr Browne said he had secured the tests from China and “everything is legal”.
The $25 tests were in such high demand it created a traffic nightmare in his suburb that left neighbours furious, he said.
But Aussies desperate to get their hands on bulk tests are being warned of scammers operating on social media making false claims about having stock that doesn’t exist.
Finder personal finance expert Kate Browne said people should be wary of private offers to buy tests online.
“If the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t give your personal information to anyone that approaches you online who you don’t know,” Ms Browne said.
“Finding a RAT kit in a shop is like finding a needle in a haystack – your best bet is to shop online with reputable dealers.
“If you do see a scam operating, report it to www.scamwatch.gov.au and be sure to call it out online to protect others.”
Australia Federal Police are investigating RAT price gouging and warned individuals and businesses they face five years’ imprisonment or a $66,000 fine for re-selling tests for more than 20 per cent of the original retail purchase price.
Two investigations have begun in Queensland and NSW after referrals from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
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