Free RAT distribution from Council facilities to end

Distribution of free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) at City of Greater Geelong facilities will end when existing stock runs out, as the Victorian Government’s Council COVID-19 RAT Distribution Program comes to a close.

This year the City has handed out more than 663,000 free RAT kits at customer service centres, libraries and leisure centres thanks to the government program.

Since its beginning, the program has twice been extended by the state, enabling it to continue until 31 December this year.

Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken:

The distribution of RATs in City facilities has given the community quick and free access to COVID-19 testing.

This has helped individuals keep themselves and their families safe during and since the pandemic, and has been especially valuable for those with vulnerable family members.

We thank the Victorian Government for providing this program, which has been well received by the Greater Geelong community.

Free RATs are available to all community members at the following City facilities until stock runs out:

Customer Service Centres

Corio Customer Service Centre

Drysdale Customer Service Centre

Wurriki Nyal Customer Service Centre

Libraries

Barwon Heads Library

Belmont Library

Chilwell Library

Corio Library

Geelong Library and Heritage Centre (The Dome)

Geelong West Library

Highton Library

Lara Library

Leopold Library

Newcomb Library

Ocean Grove Library

Waurn Ponds Library

Sporting and Aquatic Centres

Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre

Leisurelink Aquatic and Recreation Centre

Leisuretime Sports Precinct

Splashdown Leisure Centre

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker has advised that people are still recommended to seek a test if they display symptoms of COVID-19. RATs are available to purchase from local pharmacies and some supermarkets, while Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests can be obtained by referral from a GP.

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