Free access to RAT kits for veteran card holders
All Veteran Gold, White and Orange Card holders are eligible to receive up to ten free RAPID Antigen Tests (RATs) over a three-month period with a maximum of five tests per month. This policy will come into effect on 24 January 2022. In addition, DVA clients who do not hold a Gold, White or Orange Card may access free tests if they have a:
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Care card
- Health Care Card
- Low Income Health Card
Eligible Concession Card (including Veteran Card) holders can receive a free RAT test by visiting their pharmacist with their Concession or Veteran Card as proof of eligibility. Any tests provided outside of these arrangements cannot be funded by DVA. DVA cannot fund additional tests where eligible clients have reached their monthly or three-monthly limit.
Funding is only available for eligible people who are currently in Australia. When a client travels overseas, DVA is only able to fund clinically necessary treatment for their accepted conditions.
For more information on accessing and availability of free RATs, visit the Department of Health website.
Further resources for GPs to support veteran patients during the pandemic are available at the Department of Veterans’ Affair website.
