Where to get tested

General Practitioners (GPs) are usually the first contact point if you are concerned about COVID-19. You may also call the Department of Health and Human Services hotline available 24/7 on 1800 675 398.

In a medical emergency, go to the emergency department or call 000. Please let the emergency services know in advance that you are concerned about COVID-19.

A number of screening services are available in the Geelong region for people with symptoms of COVID-19:

• Norlane: Barwon Health North
• Belmont: Kardinia Health
• Newcomb: 4Cyte Pathology
• Newtown: Australian Clinical Labs
• Ocean Grove: Bellarine Respiratory Clinic (at Epichealth)
• Torquay: Torquay Community Health Centre

If you are tested at a Barwon Health clinic, you will receive a call or text message in the next 24 to 48 hours to let you know the result. During times of peak demand, results may take a little longer.

If you have attended a confirmed COVID-19 exposure site, please click here to assess your risk.

Screening Services 

Useful Resources:

• Testing information sheet for people who have been tested for COVID-19
• Information for households or carers of someone tested for COVID-19

The most common coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath
• Chills or sweats
• Runny nose or loss or change of smell

In certain circumstances headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also be considered. Many people who contract coronavirus (COVID–19) will suffer only mild symptoms. Elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions may experience more severe symptoms

I am feeling unwell, what should I do?

If you have serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, call 000 and ask for an ambulance and tell them if you also have a fever or a cough, sore throat or respiratory illness. 

If you begin to feel unwell, and have a fever or a cough, sore throat, shortness of breath or respiratory illness you should get tested for coronavirus (COVID-19).  Contact the 24-hour hotline 1800 675 398 or call your doctor and mention your symptoms and risk factors. They will determine if you need to be tested for coronavirus (COVID-19).

I have been tested for COVID-19, what happens next?

It is important that you remain at home in isolation until we notify you of your test result. You will receive a call or text message within to let you know your result. 

COVID-19 worker support payment

If you have been instructed by the Department of Health and Human Services to self-isolate or quarantine at home because you are either diagnosed with coronavirus (COVID-19) or are a close contact of a confirmed case, you may qualify for the $1500 COVID-19 worker support payment. The requirement to self-isolate or quarantine at home can cause a financial burden for some people who are not earning money during this time. Financial support during this time can help, making it easier for you to do the right thing and stay at home when diagnosed. Click here to find out if you are eligible.

Where can I find out more information?

Call the coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline on 1800 675 398 to discuss any questions you have. If you need a translator first call 131 450, then request the hotline on 1800 675 398 OR go to www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.

Find out more:

• DHHS Coronavirus translated resources (other languages)
• DHHS Coronavirus resources for Aboriginal communities