Bega by-election candidates weigh in on rapid antigen test debate

Dr Michael Holland, Labor candidate for Bega, has called for increased access to free RATs across New South Wales.

"I'm calling on the Government to specifically prioritise regional communities like ours for RATs," he said.

"We don't want a situation where people are feeling unwell but can't access a quick test simply because there aren't any.

"Particularly as people hit our beautiful coastal towns for a break, and our population triples, people need access to RAT tests."

Dr Holland criticised confusing NSW Government messaging about when to get tested and what to do while awaiting a result.

"My advice is get immunised, get a booster when you can, get tested if you have symptoms and isolate according to your symptoms and results," he said.

READ MORE: Pressure builds on Federal Government to provide free rapid antigen tests as pharmacists add their voice

Fiona Kotvojs, Liberal candidate for Bega, said it was crucial all people could access tests when necessary.

"It's important to have a mechanism so that all those who need RATs do have access," she said.

"For me that means in terms of availability and in terms of cost.

"There will be people in our community where it does need to be free, but there will be others where it doesn't.

"I would like to see RATs rolled out to testing centres, as they become more available. That means people can get results almost instantaneously."

Ms Kotvojs said the NSW government ultimately must work in tandem with the decisions of today's national cabinet meeting.

"The outcomes of todays national cabinet will be critical," she said.

"The Perrottet government will work in with whatever national cabinet decides today."

READ MORE: Biggest jump in COVID cases for Southern NSW since start of pandemic

In an interview with Australian Community Media, former Member for Bega Andrew Constance said the NSW Government is working to ensure free RAT's are provided for sections of the community.

"I've spoken to Minister Ayres - the minister responsible for sourcing RAT's for residents of NSW," Mr Constance said. "He has indicated 50 million additional test kits are being supplied over the next month."

"It's important for many in the community that these kits are provided for free and I believe that will be the case."

He said the NSW Government was particularly focusing on access to RAT's for low socio-economic groups with high exposure to the virus.

"It's important we continue to listen to the needs of our frontline health staff and frontline services, which is why the NSW government is looking to supply RATs for free for frontline service staff," he said.

READ MORE: How other countries have managed rapid antigen testing for COVID-19

Mr Constance said the way RAT's are used must also change to adapt to the virus' spread.

"It's advisable given the changing nature of the virus, that RATs increasingly be used less so for screening and more so for identification of positive cases," he said.

"It is encouraging Southern NSW Local Health District only has two people in hospital at this stage despite 1445 people infected with the virus.

"This suggest the Omicron variant or the virus is not as aggressive as previous variants.

"We must do everything in our power to safeguard and protect the vulnerable in our community - our seniors and immuno-compromised - who are most at risk.

"Between the Commonwealth and state governments there will be more supply of RATs but it doesn't change the fact everyone should wear masks, practice social distancing, socialise outside where possible and practice good hand hygiene.

"It's important people book in for their booster shots too."