Queensland PCR test requirement under review
The Queensland government is reassessing its travel requirements that currently involves people having to pay hundreds for mandatory PCR COVID-19 tests.
The state is set to open its borders again once it reaches its 80 per cent double dosed vaccination target, which is predicted to happen by December 6.
Queensland's COVID-19 roadmap outlines that all new arrivals must be be fully vaccinated and produce a negative PCR test result within 72 hours before entering the state.
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The Queensland government is reassessing its travel requirements that currently involves people having to pay hundreds for mandatory PCR COVID-19 tests. Louise Kennerley SMH
The mandatory PCR COVID-19 tests cost $150 each.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms then the test is free.
But Medicare rebates are not applicable on tests administered for domestic or international travel.
Subsequently, PCR tests for a family of four heading to Queensland could cost at least $600.
Queensland's Deputy Premier Steven Miles said "being vaccinated and having a negative test will assist us to control the arrival of the virus into Queensland".
Queensland is set to open its borders again once it reaches its 80 per cent double dosed vaccination target, which is predicted to happen by December 6. Getty
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He said the reason PCR tests are not free is because Medicare requires that for a rebate the test needs to be deemed a medical necessity.
He added that he has urged the federal government to allow all tests to be covered by Medicare.
"I'd urge the Commonwealth to consider that these tests are part of our wider health response, and so therefore should be eligible for a Medicare rebate."
With arrivals to Queensland only allowed in by air many people are struggling to justify the cost.
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