Council has continued its Community Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) program to enhance testing capacity and detect COVID-19 cases quickly, contributing to community health management and control measures.
Supported by the Victorian State Government, the program provides free RATs to all community members and testing kits can be collected at Golden Plains Shire Council Customer Hubs located at 2 Pope Street, Bannockburn and 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale.
For any community members who are unable to visit these Customer Hubs, our Customer Experience team will help make arrangements to have RATs delivered safely. The team can also be found distributing RATs at the Golden Plains Farmers Markets in August and September.
For more information and to find out other ways you can access RATs, please contact the Customer Experience Team on 5220 7111.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can get free rapid antigen tests?
All community members who present to a collection site can receive up to 10 tests (2 kits) for themselves, plus up to 10 tests (2 kits) for each member of their household per visit.
Community members requesting tests do not need to verify eligibility and do not need to reside within the municipality.
The current testing advice determines the following quantities for priority and high-risk community members (or someone collecting tests on their behalf)
People with disabilities or their carer can receive 20 tests (4 kits) per visit and do not need to verify eligibility.
What if I have symptoms or I am a contact of a COVID-19 case?
You should not go to a council site if you have COVID-19 symptoms. Someone can collect RATs on your behalf at any council collection site.
Where can I get more information on the use of RATs?
For more information about getting tested and reporting a positive rapid antigen test result, visit the Department of Health website. (www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au). Alternatively, you can call the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 675 398.
What happens if I can’t get to Council’s Customer Hubs?
Council is committed to ensuring all Community members have access to RATs. Please contact the Customer Experience Team on 5220 7111 and the team will help make arrangements to deliver you RATs safely.