The Victorian Government has announced steps to reduce testing queues and transmission in Victoria, under new pandemic orders taking effect from 11:59pm, Thursday 6 January 2022. 

Recommendation to work and study from home

The Victorian Government is strongly recommendating to work from home and study from home (for adult education) if you can. This recommendation will remain in place until Australia Day and will continue to be assessed.

Changes to the COVID-19 testing system

• People who test positive on a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) will be considered probable cases and be subject to the same requirements as confirmed cases from a PCR test. They must isolate for seven days and notify their contacts.
• It will be mandatory for individuals to report the result of a positive RAT to the Department of Health through an online form or by phone – ensuring people can access the care and information they need, including monitoring for worsening symptoms and financial support for isolation.
• Until RATs are in increased supply, Victorians who have symptoms, or asymptomatic household contacts required to use RATs, can still get a PCR test if they can’t access any RATs.

You can report your positive result here.

Information on updated COVIDSafe settings will also be published soon.

For more information, please go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au.