How to register a positive RAT result in NSW
The NSW government now requires you to register your positive rapid antigen test result.
People who receive a positive result on an at-home rapid antigen test (RAT) in New South Wales are now required to report their result. The directive is applied retroactively to all positive results from 1 January 2022.
Failure to register a positive rapid antigen test result may result in a $1,000 fine though there's a grace period until 19 January before fines will be enforced.
How do I register my rapid antigen test result?
You can register your result via 2 main methods, either the Service NSW app or the Service NSW website. If those methods aren't available to you, you can call Service NSW for assistance.
Via the Service NSW app:
- 1. Log in to the app and scroll down to COVID-19 Resources and click through. Scroll to the Rapid Antigen Testing section and select "Register a positive test result".
- 2. This will take you to a login screen for your Service NSW account, you have the option for guest access.
- 3. Fill in your details including when you tested positive, your legal name, date of birth, postcode and phone number (email is optional). The form also asks you to answer questions relating to your vaccination status and any health conditions.
- 4. Read both sections of the declaration and confirm by ticking the boxes and clicking submit.
Via the Service NSW website:
- 1. Click here to register your result.
- 2. Fill in your details including when you tested positive, your legal name, date of birth, postcode and phone number (email is optional). The form also asks you to answer questions relating to your vaccination status and any health conditions.
- 3. Read both sections of the declaration and confirm by ticking the boxes and clicking submit.
The questions will assist NSW Health in determining your status as a low-risk or high-risk COVID-19 patient.
"Over 99.99 per cent of people, they will be in that low-risk setting, and will be able to resolve COVID at home simply by resting and going through the requisite isolation."
"Those at higher risk, you will get a call or be contacted by NSW Health within 48 hours, and with a further survey, to make sure that you are okay," said Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Victor Dominello.
You can register results on behalf of dependents through the same method as QR check-in.
When do I need to register my result?
You only need to register a positive result you've received on or since 1 January 2022. If you test positive and don't register your result after 19 January you may be fined $1,000 though it's not clear how this will be enforced.
Where can I find rapid antigen tests?
You can purchase rapid antigen tests from major supermarket outlets including Woolworths and Coles as well as pharmacies and online.
Where to buy rapid antigen testing kits in Australia
As supply is low and demand is high, beware of any scams and look to buy from reputable sources, and make sure the test is approved for use at home by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.
Learn more about how COVID-19 testing works.
