Buy rapid antigen tests (RATs) in Hobart: From $6 per test

Find out how to most easily and affordably buy rapid antigen tests in Hobart and Tasmania at large.

Tasmania has managed to stay relatively insulated from COVID throughout the pandemic, but that is beginning to change. Today, the state recorded the most cases it has seen since the pandemic began. The weapons we use in the fight against COVID are now more important than ever.

One of the most critical tools we have is rapid antigen testing. These instruments allow users to get a quick (∼15 minutes) and accurate reading as to whether they have COVID. The current situation in Tasmania means you are more likely to require a RAT than ever before.

As such, you'll want to know your best options for purchasing rapid antigen tests in Hobart and Tasmania. To help you out, we've assembled this handy guide. All the brands listed below are TGA-approved and the retailers are all based in Australia.

Cheapest rapid antigen tests Hobart and Tasmania

$7.95 off single test-pack from Rapid Antigen Tests Online

On Rapid Antigen Tests Online, a JusCheck oral or nasal swab RAT is available for $7 (plus flat $12.50 express shipping). You can scale this deal all the way up to 200 RATs, if stock allows.

• Clinical nasal test kit
• Illustrated step-by-step instructions
• Express delivery

Buy now for $7

$29.91 off 5-pack on Rapid Proof

Score a discount by buying RATs in larger quantities. You can get this 5-pack of JusChek nasal swab kits for just $29.99, plus free shipping.

• Clinical nasal test kit
• Illustrated step-by-step instructions
• Express delivery available

$20 off 10-pack from Rapid Antigen Australia

Get this 10-pack of Flowflex nasal test kits for just $79.90 (plus $7.95 shipping). Buying in bulk offers greater opportunities for savings, making this an ideal option for larger families.

• Clinical nasal test kit
• Illustrated step-by-step instructions

$15.99 for 2-pack from Catch

Purchase a RightSign 2-pack of RATs for just $15.99 plus free shipping. In fact, Catch offers free shipping on all RAT orders.

• Clinical nasal test kit
• Illustrated step-by-step instructions

How to use a RAT kit

If you're lucky enough to never have needed to use a RAT before or you would like a refresher, refer to this helpful, generic video produced by NSW Health. Just keep in mind that instructions will vary from brand to brand.

RAT rules in Tasmania

The Tasmanian government's official advice treats RAT kits and PCR tests very similarly. You should perform a RAT or PCR test if you have COVID-19 symptoms, if you are a close contact or if you are otherwise directed to perform a test by Tasmanian Public Health. However, individuals who live with a medical condition listed here should perform a PCR test rather than a RAT.

If you return a positive result on a RAT, you must register your result on this form or by calling the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738. If you receive a positive result, you're required to isolate for 7 days after being tested. You can leave isolation on day 7 if you have no symptoms. If you still have symptoms, you should isolate for an additional 3 days.

Free rapid antigen tests Hobart and Tasmania

If you are required to receive a COVID-19 test because of symptoms or contact tracing, you are able to receive a RAT at no cost. Request your free RATs by filling out this form.

Additionally, certain concession card holders are eligible to collect a maximum of 5 RATs in 1 month or 10 RATs in 3 months from participating community pharmacies. If you hold one of the following concession cards, you are eligible for this scheme:

• Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
• Health Care Card
• Low Income Health Care Card
• Pensioner Concession Card
• Department of Veterans' Affairs Gold, White or Orange Card

If you want to use RATs for less urgent reasons, like to make sure you don't have COVID before attending a gathering or you want to purchase RATs so you can use them as soon as you need them, look to one of the vendors listed on this page.

Where to buy masks in Tasmania

Face masks are mandatory in Tasmania in a number of settings and the possibility always exists that these guidelines will be expanded as cases rise. Check out your best options for buying masks online in Hobart and Tasmania.

Buy cloth masks

Buy N95 masks