Over one million free Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits have been distributed to South Australians, in a mammoth effort to help the State combat the spread of COVID-19.

The South Australian Fire and Emergency Service Commission (SAFECOM) has been assisting SA Health with the distribution of RAT kits to close contacts.

The RAT Close Contact Program team opened the first collection point at Adelaide – Josie Agius Park/Wikaparntu Wirra (Park 22) – on 13 January 2022 to relieve the pressure on PCR testing sites.

This week, the one millionth RAT kit was handed to a member of the public.

Across South Australia, SAFECOM has now established 55 RAT Collection Points in both regional and metropolitan areas, a combination of stand-alone sites and some integrated within existing PCR testing sites.

In addition to the RAT Collection Points, the program has assisted the Department of Human Services with the distribution of RATs to people with disability or mobility impairments, participants of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and a range of educational facilities across the state.

Information on close contact requirements can be found on the SA Health website.

Quotes

Attributable to Minister for Emergency Services Joe Szakacs

I cannot thank the hard-working volunteers and workers for delivering this important public service in the fight against COVID.

I had the chance to visit the team this week and thank them, personally, for the work they have done – it’s not an easy task.

Their work has been invaluable in keeping South Australian’s safe.

Attributable to SAFECOM Chief Executive Julia Waddington-Powell

SAFECOM, along with our partner agencies such as Surf Life Saving South Australia and Red Cross, has distributed a significant number of test kits to the South Australian community, which has been instrumental in the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Attributable to RAT Close Contact Program Manager Adam Waller

This milestone is a chance for the team to reflect on their hard work and diligence in providing a service to the community of South Australia that helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.