Taxi and ride share drivers with no symptoms of COVID-19 are now eligible for free, regular COVID-19 testing as part of Western Australia's enhanced DETECT Borders surveillance program.
The voluntary testing is available as often as weekly at any public COVID-19 testing clinic.
The DETECT program commenced on September 11, 2020, as part of the extensive range of measures designed to prevent transmission of COVID-19 into the State.
It has now been expanded to taxi drivers and ride share drivers who often transport domestic travellers, to offer them peace of mind and bolster our surveillance measures.
The testing aims to swiftly detect any COVID-19 cases as soon as possible to limit onward transmission.
DETECT Borders asymptomatic testing remains available to Perth domestic airport workers, sea port workers, and those employed at the Eucla or Kununurra border crossings who have close contact with arrivals.
People who fit the criteria for asymptomatic testing can resume normal activities immediately and will be informed of a negative result via SMS.
Anyone who tests positive will be followed up in line with existing Public Health procedures.
Any other community member who has symptoms of COVID-19, even if mild, is encouraged to get tested so we can catch cases before they spread.
For details of clinics and opening hours, visit http://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Coronavirus
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"Early detection of COVID-19 before it has a chance to transmit in the community is essential to protecting Western Australians from the virus and maintaining our personal freedoms.
"We have a range of appropriate, considered measures in place for various settings according to risk and, given the interaction of ride share and taxi drivers with travellers, it is appropriate that they be included in the DETECT Borders program.
"This is a voluntary program which offers greater value if more people participate, so I would ask that anyone who is eligible takes the opportunity for regular testing.
"We must maintain our vigilance around surveillance, particularly now that we face more contagious variants of COVID-19, so please do not get complacent and I'd encourage you to get tested if you are sick or eligible for asymptomatic testing."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Taxi and ride share drivers play a key role in transporting passengers all around Western Australia.
"I am really pleased this testing has been expanded to include taxi drivers and ride share drivers, giving both drivers and passengers greater peace of mind.
"I encourage the industry to take advantage of this voluntary opportunity."
