AusRapid has partnered with Medical Rapid Test Clinic, an arm of Telemedic, so that employees can self-administer the test using a saliva-based pen which was TGA-approved in August, and have it checked off by a health professional online 15 minutes later.

Kaleb Paten, managing director at AusRapid CovidTest, said the test was previously being used but required the on-site presence of a medical professional to comply with TGA requirements.

Among those delivering on-site rapid antigen tests are mine operators

The new partnership removes that barrier, by providing access to a an online 'telehealth' service. As a saliva-based test, there was less scope for the test to be self-administered incorrectly, as nasal swabs could be, Mr Paten said.

Business taking up the test include freight logistics company Asciano Limited, an airline, and locally-owned Sage Painting, he said.

A typical scenario might see a team of 15 workers due to start their working day at 7am turning up 15 minutes early, with a COVID martial or team leader on-hand to supervise and oversee an online link to a GP. Workers would self-administer the test, under supervision, and show the result to the GP before going on to work.

"Rapid antigen testing for businesses and employees is increasingly recognised as a vital component of a broader solution to detect and prevent the spread of the virus," Mr Paten said.

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