Which Covid rapid antigen tests sold in Australia can you trust and what do they cost?

As Covid case numbers continue to surge across the country and testing wait times blow out, people are increasingly using rapid antigen tests.

They are a convenient alternative to queueing for traditional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and an extra precaution before attending gatherings in the lead-up to Christmas.

But with reports of shortages and varying levels of dependability, deciding what RAT kit to buy and when to use it can be difficult.

So, which tests can you trust, and how much are they?

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved 15 different rapid antigen testing kits, and categorised them according to their clinical sensitivity.

Although the varying degrees of clinical sensitivity are listed by the TGA, the University of Queensland infectious disease physician, associate professor Paul Griffin said any test approved by the TGA was worth using.

Rapid antigen testing kits cost roughly $10-20 per single test.

Tests have been available for purchase at chemists and supermarkets since November, with many sold in packs of two, five, 10 or more.

Considering businesses are responsible for purchasing their own testing kits, the costs can be substantial if workers need to get tested every day to protect themselves and their colleagues.

High demand has also reduced availability, with many retailers selling out, causing prices to fluctuate online.

The problem has been exacerbated by global supply chain issues that are delaying shipments of the tests into Australia.

Business and union groups have called for the government to fund or subsidise tests, to allow greater accessibility.