
Get a PCR test
Testing for COVID-19 continues to be available for people with symptoms or living with someone who has tested positive
People at higher risk should contact their GP or if they cannot access a GP call the [email protected] team to discuss testing options.
Test early
Testing as soon as symptoms start is very important for people who are eligible for antiviral medicine to treat COVID-19 and flu.
The medication must be started as soon as possible after symptoms begin.
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Learn more about who may be eligible for medication to treat COVID-19 and how to access treatment
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Learn more about who may be eligible for medication to treat influenza (flu) and how to access treatment
You can use a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) or some people are recommended to get a PCR test. Read below who should get a PCR test.
If you believe you are at higher risk of severe COVID-19, you should talk to your GP about eligibility for COVID-19 treatments and create a plan for testing and fast access to treatment.
If you are at higher risk and cannot access a GP call the [email protected] team on 1800 973 363.
Request a RAT kit via the online request form
Who should get a PCR test
You should get a PCR test when:
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you are having difficulty using a RAT
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you get an invalid result after taking a RAT. See Test results explained.
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you get a negative RAT result and have ongoing symptoms
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your GP or medical practitioner recommends you get a PCR test.
Public Health advise the following people are recommended to have a PCR test:
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people who are at higher-risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and may be eligible for antiviral medication.
People with disability, who may not be able to be tested in a drive-through clinic, should contact their GP or the [email protected] team on 1800 973 363 for referral to the most appropriate testing option.
Where to get a PCR test
- State-operated PCR Testing Clinics (drive through) in Hobart, Launceston and Devonport until Tuesday 31 January 2023 – this option is free.
- GP-led Respiratory Clinics in a general practice setting in Launceston and St Helens– this option is free but requires a booking.
- Your local GP clinic may offer COVID-19, flu or RSV testing or provide a GP referral to a pathology service – referral is required to be covered under Medicare.
- If you are not able to access a GP call the [email protected] team on 1800 973 363 to discuss testing options.
State-operated clinics for COVID-19, flu and RSV
For a free test, just turn up at the testing site during operating hours.
Testing is available until Tuesday 31 January 2023
Location | Operating hours |
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Testing Clinic - Hobart Mac Point Macquarie Point, Behind 16A Evans Street |
Monday to Saturday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm Closed Sunday, Open Public Holidays |
Testing Clinic - Launceston 63 Dowling Street |
Monday to Saturday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm Closed Sunday, Open Public Holidays |
Testing Clinic - Devonport East Devonport Recreation Centre (access via John Street) |
Monday to Saturday, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm Closed Sunday, Open Public Holidays |
GP-led Respiratory Clinics for COVID-19 PCR tests only
At these clinics you will see a GP for an assessment and test.
Please be advised that the Hobart Respiratory Clinic, located at Derwent Park, closed permanently from 23 December 2022.
Testing at Launceston and St Helens is available until 28 February 2023.
Location | Information |
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Launceston Respiratory Clinic 237 Wellington Street, Launceston |
Booking required call 6310 8310 or book online This option is free Afternoons, 7 days a week
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St Helens Respiratory Clinic 8 Bowen Street, St Helens |
Booking required call 6351 0007 or book online This option is free Monday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons
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Where to get more information
- Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738
- COVID-19 testing on the Healthdirect website
- [email protected]
- COVID-19 treatments