Tara Murray
Rapid Antigen Tests will be distributed to key workforces from today as part of the state government’s roll out.
The government announced on Sunday it had received three million tests from the bulk order it had placed.
Workers in sensitive settings and essential workforces will be prioritised to receive the RATs as part of the initial rollout.
This includes essential workers in our health system, emergency services, and disability and aged care services.
Victorians who may have pre-existing conditions that make them susceptible to severe illness will also be prioritised.
As part of the roll out, more than 60 grassroots community and multifaith organisations are also distributing free RATs to many Victorians in need as part of their existing care and support programs.
The distribution of free RATs has helped to reduce the pressure on the PCR testing system, significantly reducing PCR testing wait times.
Since the RAT reporting system opened on January 7, 145,580 Victorians have reported a positive result.
Premier Daniel Andrews said Victorians will soon be able to reliably obtain a free RAT.
“As more tests progressively arrive, we’ll continue to roll them out to those who need them.”
“As we continue to test, there’s nothing more important than getting your third dose – it will not only give you better protection against COVID-19, but also significantly slow transmission.”
