How to register your RAT
Despite difficulty acquiring them at the moment, nearly half the daily new case numbers are now made up of RAT results. Here’s what to do if you test positive.
Victoria
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Queues for PCR tests are stretching on for kilometres all over the state, so reliance has shifted to rapid antigen tests (RATs).
Despite the difficulty associated with acquiring them at the moment, nearly half the daily new case numbers are now made up of RAT results.
If you’re lucky enough to locate a RAT, you are legally required to report your positive result.
How do I report my positive RAT?
If your RAT returns positive, there is no need to also get a PCR test to confirm.
The state government is now treating positive RATs as ‘probable’ cases, but official nonetheless.
You can register your result either by phoning the Covid hotline on 1800 675 398, or by completing this online form.
The form asks for your basic personal details, as well as the severity of your symptoms (to determine if you need medical assistance).
It is important your results are registered to develop an accurate representation of daily case numbers, informing decisions on how to best support the state’s health system.
How to register your positive RAT result
Most states now provide an online form where you can register a positive Rapid Antigen Test result.
In some states, registration for positive for Rapid Antigen Test is complulsory. You will need to register the result or face a fine.
Here’s how to do it in the states where it is available.
• Register in New South Wales
• Register in South Australia
• Register in Northern Territory
Who else do I need to tell if I’m positive?
In addition to registering your result with the government, you need to tell those you live with (who must isolate with you for seven days), your workplace, place of education and social contacts so they can get tested.
What if I test negative to a RAT?
If you test negative, you are not required to report any results and may carry on as usual.
However, if you are showing Covid symptoms alongside a negative RAT, it is recommended you either take another test where possible or contact your GP for advice.
The exception to this rule is if you are a household contact; then you are required to complete the seven day isolation period regardless of symptoms or lack thereof.
Do I need a PCR test?
If you’ve tested positive to a RAT, you do not need a PCR as well.
However, if you’re unable to get hold of a RAT, then you can get a PCR.
If you have tested positive to a RAT while waiting for a PCR result, you are still considered an official case.
If you have taken both a RAT and a PCR and their outcomes differ, rely on the result of the PCR.
What if I can’t get my hands on a RAT?
We all know RATs are a precious commodity right now, so if you are unable to locate a test then the government recommends getting a PCR.
If that too is unavailable, then you must isolate until either test is accessible.
These same rules apply if you are a household contact.
What are the rules for isolating?
Once you have tested positive to any form of Covid test, you are immediately required to undertake a minimum seven days of isolation, along with the people you live with.
If you are still presenting symptoms after the seven day period, you are strongly advised to extend isolation until you feel healthy again.
Can I get financial support if I’m isolating?
If you are waiting on a PCR result and can’t work, a government payment of $450 is available.
This only applies to those waiting on PCRs.
If you have tested positive to a RAT and can’t work, you can apply for the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment which provides $750 for seven days of home isolation.
If you need to isolate for ten days you can apply for two of the $750 payments.
The Australian Red Cross is also delivering care packages to those in need, including basic food and personal care products.
These packages are designed to last a four-person household for two weeks.
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