COVID-19 home use tests
Use and interpret the results from COVID-19 home use tests
COVID-19 home tests test nasal swabs, saliva, and oral fluid samples for the virus.
Home use tests can be used anywhere, including at home or work. They can be used without the involvement of a doctor or health professional. Most tests produce a result within 10-20 minutes.
When to test
The tests are more reliable when used by a person with COVID-19 symptoms. They are less reliable when used by a person without symptoms.
Home use tests are not as accurate as tests done in the laboratory (called PCR tests).
Purchasing a test
Home use tests are available from pharmacies, supermarkets, retail outlets and online.
Only TGA approved tests are legally permitted to be sold in Australia. See COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests approved in Australia.
Using the test
Many home use tests are available and each one is different. It is important to follow the steps in the instructions provided with the test you use.
Before collecting saliva for a COVID-19 self-test, don't eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, or chew gum for 10-30 minutes. Refer to the instructions provided with your test kit for the recommended timing.
Not using the test properly may produce an incorrect result.
All tests are for single use only which means you can only use each test ONCE and then it must be thrown away. Do not ever use a test more than once or attempt to use one test on different people.
Wash your hands after completing the test and disposing of the test kit contents.
Example of test results
Most results will be displayed in a window on the device. The instructions provided with the test will explain what the result means.
For example, the results could look like this:
Negative result
A second line even if faint is a positive result
Positive results
If you get a positive result, you should stay at home. Find out what you need to do from your state or territory health department- external site. This includes whether you need to report your result and quarantine requirements.
If you are unwell, you should seek medical assistance.
Negative results
If you get a negative result, it is less likely that you have COVID-19 but continue to follow all public health advice on limiting the spread of the virus.
If you feel unwell or have symptoms, you should get a PCR test as soon as possible.
‘Invalid’ results
Home use tests may produce an ‘invalid’ result, which means it has not worked correctly.
If this happens, you should throw it away and do another home use test. If you are unwell and have symptoms, get a PCR test at a testing site.
How often to test
This will depend on the recommendations and requirements of the state or territory you live in. Check your state or territory health departments website for information.
Tests used for children
Tests on children should always be done or supervised by an adult. Check the instructions for safety instructions before using the test on a child.
Disposing of a home use test
This will vary according to information provided with the tests. Some tests come with a plastic bag to place the contents of the test into (including the swab). This bag is then placed into another bag for disposal with your household rubbish.
If no bags are provided you can place the used items from the test into a small plastic bag that can be sealed. This bag should be put into another bag that can be sealed and disposed of with your household rubbish.
Take care to wash your hands after you're done with the test.
Concerns with home use tests
Home use tests are not as accurate as PCR tests. They provide results quickly.
They can detect very early COVID-19 virus symptoms.
Where there are low rates of COVID-19, the tests are less accurate as there is a higher risk of both false positive and false negative results.
Reporting an adverse event or problem
Report an adverse event or problem with a home-use test online at Report a problem or side effect.
If you need help to report a problem, call 1800 809 361 (8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday) or email IRIS@health.gov.au.