Skip to main content

COVID-19 testing

This article was updated on 11 January 2024. 

 

Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are the easiest way to test for COVID-19.

You should get a test:

  • if you have COVID-19 symptoms, even if they’re very mild
  • if you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19
  • before visiting a hospital, aged care facility, or disability care facility
  • before visiting elderly people, people with disability or people at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness.

COVID-19 can spread before you have symptoms. You can protect others by checking that you are negative before you leave home.

PCR testing

To get a PCR test:

  • Visit your GP. They will decide if you need a PCR test based on your symptoms and medical conditions. They may give you a referral to a pathology collection centre.
  • If you have a referral from your GP, go to a pathology collection centre. Your GP should be able to tell you where your closest one is. Don’t forget to take the referral from your GP with you.

More on testing for COVID-19

Where to get help

Keep up-to-date with the latest information, news and advice - to find out the latest information on COVID-19 visit the Victorian Government's Better Health website.