Darling Downs Health partners with local councils to distribute rapid antigen tests

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Rapid antigen tests at library

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Concession card holders across Toowoomba Regional Council, Western Downs Regional Council, South Burnett Regional Council and Southern Downs Regional Council areas are now able to access free rapid antigen tests at various council facilities.

Darling Downs Health Acting Silver Commander Michelle Forrest said the partnership with councils had allowed widespread access to rapid antigen tests for concession card holders.

“By partnering with councils we're able to provide rapid antigen tests at facilities that are readily accessed by community members, and importantly in rural and regional areas,” Ms. Forrest said

“Making these tests easily accessible will allow members of the community to conveniently collect the testing kits as they go about their day.”

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor and Chair of Darling Downs Southwest Council of Mayors, Cr Paul Antonio said the partnership was an example of governments working together.

“We've seen throughout this pandemic the importance of government's working together, and utilising our facilities to distribute rapid antigen tests is just another opportunity that all levels of government can work together,” Cr Antonio said

“One particular initiative that I’m particularly proud of is the utilisation of the Mobile Library truck that travels throughout the Toowoomba Regional Council area to supply tests kits to communities such as Bowenville, Jondaryan, Cooyar, Haden and many more.”

In addition to concession card holders, other groups eligible to receive free rapid antigen tests from Queensland Health distribution points include:

  • people who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness, including people escaping domestic and family violence
  • people who are seeking asylum in Queensland
  • people who have recently arrived from Ukraine
  • people who are working in Queensland as part of the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme.

To find the nearest Queensland Health RAT distribution point, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/exposed-to-covid/covid-testing-in-queensland/free-rat-concession-card-qld