COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Tests

This page is for consumer self-testing.
Click here for Point-of-Care rapid antigen tests suitable for use in clinical environments.

The COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Test is not a substitute for a PCR test, Rapid Antigen testing is only for screening purposes and you should rely on a PCR test if unwell at all. 

Rapid antigen testing can be used at home, at work, or at an event to detect an active infection before symptoms become apparent, especially when used regularly as part of a testing regime, while the patient is shedding high levels of the virus and therefore has a high risk of transmitting it to others. It is critically important that those who do return a positive result from rapid antigen testing immediately seek PCR testing, as rapid antigen testing is more likely to provide false positives (and false negatives.)

Given that that, it is important to note that negative test results do not exclude infection with COVID-19, which means face masks, social distancing and good hygiene practice must be maintained.

Rapid antigen self-testing has been used extensively in other parts of the world such as the US and UK to complement PCR testing, and results are avaliable in as little as 15 minutes. Rapid antigen self-tests do not require complicated diagnostic equipment or supervision by a Health Practitioner, making them perfect for use onsite at workplaces, events, or schools.

Can I purchase the test?

Yes. The TGA has approved the self-tests listed on this page for sale to the general public in Australia.

Testing Procedure

Supporting Documentation

General Information from the Therapeutic Goods Administration

• https://www.tga.gov.au/covid-19-rapid-antigen-self-tests-home-use
• https://www.tga.gov.au/qas-covid-19-rapid-antigen-self-tests

Abbott Panbio Tests

• https://www.globalpointofcare.abbott/en/product-details/panbio-covid-19-antigen-self-test-au.html