Get a PCR test

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.

• Learn more about who may be eligible for medication to treat COVID-19 and how to access treatment 

• 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: 

• you are having difficulty using a RAT 

• you get an invalid result after taking a RAT. See Test results explained. 

• you get a negative RAT result and have ongoing symptoms 

• your GP or medical practitioner recommends you get a PCR test. 

Public Health advise the following people are recommended to have a PCR test: 

• 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

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.

Where to get more information

• Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738
• COVID-19 testing on the Healthdirect website
• [email protected]
• COVID-19 treatments