Where to get a COVID-19 test in Melbourne

Option #1: Buy rapid antigen tests in Melbourne

Edit top picks All prices are subject to change without prior notice.

If you need a COVID-19 test result as quickly as possible, a rapid antigen test (RAT) is definitely your best option. These kits can be used at home without a medical professional and do not require you to send the test to a lab. Results typically take under 30 minutes.

A pack of 5 tests typically costs $20-$30.

To find RAT kits near you, head to our guide on where to buy COVID home test kits. Some rapid antigen tests are also being offered for free to concession and health care cardholders.

Compare rapid antigen tests in Melbourne

Be careful! Things to check with rapid antigen tests

We're checking availability for RAT testing kits regularly but delivery times are subject to change. All tests sold in Australia must be approved by the TGA. Some sellers try and charge prices far above the average ("price gouging"). This isn't legal in Australia. Always consider your options carefully before buying.

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Am I required to register a RAT result in Melbourne?

If you record a positive RAT test, it is important you report it to the Department of Health and Human Services Victoria.

For information on how to get the right help in recovering, go to this page or call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you test positive to COVID-19, it is strongly recommend that you isolate until your symptoms subside.

Option #2: Get a free PCR test in Melbourne

Once an hallmark of the pandemic, PCR tests have fallen out of fashion as governments have accepted rapid antigen tests as the primary form of testing. However, PCR tests are still available in certain situations.

PCR tests are available for Victorians with COVID-19 symptoms. People at high risk of severe illness and other at-risk groups will have their PCR tests prioritised. Lower risk individuals will be offered free rapid antigen tests to take home.

If you require a negative PCR test to enter a country you're travelling to, you won't be able to rely on free PCR tests. Instead, you will need to pay for a test from a private pathology clinic.

If you do not have COVID-19 symptoms, you are not eligible to receive a PCR test unless specifically directed by a relevant authority.

Find your nearest testing clinic in Melbourne here.

Option #3: PCR tests for travel in Melbourne

Some nations require a negative PCR test in order to enter the country. You cannot receive a PCR test for these purposes at a state-supported PCR testing site.

Instead, you'll need to book a PCR test and get your certification at a private pathology clinic or at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport. Certification is available for as little as $100.

Compare PCR testing clinics in Melbourne

PCR tests in Melbourne

COVID-19 testing for pre-departure international travel clearance is only available at private pathology collection centres. This means you cannot rely on a free test from a COVID-19 testing clinic. Instead, you will need to pay a fee for a COVID-19 Travel Certificate.

The amount you pay will depend on the clinic and how quickly you need the results. You can find a list of clinic locations and compare prices in the table above.

How to book a PCR test from Melbourne Tullamarine airport

Histopath offers express PCR testing from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport with results ready within 1 hour. This is the best option if you forgot to book a test and need a COVID-19 Travel Certificate as quickly as possible.

This test is required for international travel to most countries and meets the needs of all destination governments. You can book a test at Melbourne airport online or call 02 9878 8173 for more information.

How to book a PCR test before arriving at the airport

A number of private clinics provide RT-PCR tests for travel from collection centre locations around Victoria. Clinics operating in Melbourne and wider Victoria include Australian Clinical Labs, Healius and Safework Laboratories.

If you want to get your travel certificate sorted before heading to the airport, this may be a better option.

How much do express PCR tests cost?

An express RT-PCR swab test from Melbourne Tullamarine airport costs $79. If you are travelling to China and you are unvaccinated, you will also need to take a Blood Antibody test. The combined cost for both tests is $170.

Can I book a PCR test from Melbourne airport on Saturday or Sunday?

Yes. If your flight is on a weekend, don't worry – Histopath's laboratory performs tests 7 days a week.

RT-PCR testing centres in Melbourne and Victoria

Australian Clinical Labs	Burwood Ballarat Central Broadford Bundoora Colac Craigieburn Dandenong Eltham Fawkner Glen Waverley Horsham Kilmore Lalor Melbourne Mornington Newtown Reservoir Seymour St Albans Strathfieldsaye Swan Hill Traralgon Warrnambool Werribee Cooloongup
Healius	Altona Fawkner Ferntree Gully Heidelberg	Histopath	Melbourne Tullamarine Airport

Option #4: Bulk buy and professional COVID tests for Melbourne businesses

For businesses looking to create a safe working environment there are multiple suppliers that sell large quantities of rapid antigen tests to businesses in the table below. However, if your business requires COVID tests that need to be administered by a health professional, see our where to buy professional COVID tests guide.