Released 10/07/2020
In response to a surge in demand for COVID-19 testing, the ACT Government will open three additional free testing clinics.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said that Canberrans are hearing the message of getting tested, helping ACT Health to monitor COVID-19 in the ACT.
“The ACT has consistently produced strong testing figures, having now recorded more than 34,000 negative tests. More than 1200 tests were conducted yesterday across EPIC Drive-through and Weston Creek.
“With the events occurring in Victoria and the onset of the Influenza season, we will continue to see an upward trend in demand for community testing of COVID-19.
“We know this increase in testing has led to lengthy wait times and we thank everyone for their patience. These additional clinics will help to meet the increase in demand and give Canberrans more options for testing, closer to their homes,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
The additional COVID-19 testing clinics, operated by Canberra Health Services, are:
COVID-19 Surge Centre
From Saturday 11 July, the COVID-19 Surge Centre located on Garran Oval will operate as a walk-in COVID-19 testing clinic, with a drive through option available from Monday 13 July.
This service will operate from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm seven days a week. No appointment is required.
West Belconnen Child and Family Centre
From Monday 13 July, the West Belconnen Child and Family centre will operate as a walk-in testing clinic. Testing will be available Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 5.00 pm. No appointment is required.
An additional drive-through facility in south Canberra will also be established as soon as possible, with Canberra Health Services currently exploring site locations. More information will be provided early next week.
Canberrans are being reminded not to present for testing unless you are eligible. Testing is only available for people with COVID-19 symptoms or people who have been told by a public health official to get tested.
“We understand that there is a level of increased anxiety in the community with the new positive COVID-19 cases detected in the ACT and we thank people for doing the right thing and getting tested if they have even the mildest of COVID-19 symptoms.
“Our priority must be on testing people who have symptoms of COVID-19, and doing this as quickly as possible.
“We know Canberrans are concerned about the return of the virus to the ACT. We have every confidence that the ACT is in a very good position to respond should we see an increase of cases.
"We have greater testing capacity, we have better systems in place, and we have more capacity in our health system to respond.
"What we really need now is for Canberrans to work with us and keep as safe as possible – maintain the 1.5 metre distance for those around you, wash your hands regularly and get tested if you are unwell," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
For a full list of free COVID-19 testing locations, visit: https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/stay-safe-and-healthy/symptoms-and-getting-tested
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases