The Victorian government has announced its free rapid antigen test (RAT) program for people with a disability will be extended until the end of September.
The program allows NDIS participants, disability support pensioners, and people with a disability who receive a Transport Accident Commission benefit to access 20 RATs per visit to a state-run COVID-19 testing site.
Alternatively, people unable to attend a testing site can contact a Disability Liaison Officer to help organise access to the RATs, and carers can access the tests on behalf of eligible people with disability.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers, Colin Brooks said the extension would ensure everyone with disability has access to RATs to keep themselves, their loved ones and carers safe.
“Early detection of COVID-19 helps protect people from serious illness by ensuring earlier diagnosis and treatment – and this is especially so for the most vulnerable in our community who experience its effects more harshly,” Minister Brooks said.
“We are continuing to provide free rapid antigen tests for people who need them most, supporting Victorians with disability to stay safe during the coming winter months.”
The free RAT program was announced in April 2022 to initially run for three months but has been extended following a review.
