The current wave of Covid infections is putting extreme strain on the provision of disability services. While Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) will be a practical support, providers have found access extremely challenging.

This update aims to give practical advice for providers around access to RATs.  Unfortunately, the demand is extreme and the supply chain is struggling, but we are hopeful this will change in the coming weeks.

The following are some ideas that may help providers at this time, noting that it is a rapidly changing situation.

• Ensure you identify and research options for securing RAT stock both in the short as well as the longer term
• Act quickly when a good deal arises
• Look on the NDS members hub - we have recently updated this listing with new partner suppliers. When visiting their websites or contacting them directly, they may not have immediate stock available - discuss your needs and ensure you are added to waitlists where possible.
• There is little opportunity for bulk discounts at this stage and a price of between $10 to $12 is currently reasonable
• When placing an order, suppliers may ask for significant deposits and delivery times are variable. Identifying and using established and reputable suppliers will minimise risks.

NDS is urging both Federal and State Governments to:

• provide priority access to free or funded RAT for people with disability and the disability sector workforce.
• work with providers to establish a system for distribution when RATs are available.
• support for free access to RATs for the sector during the current rates of high community transmission.