Federal government funds PCR tests

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has welcomed the Federal Health Minister’s commitment to fund PCR tests required to enter Queensland from interstate hotspots.

“I said we work best when we work together,” the Premier said.

“This proves it.”

The Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care has told reporters:

“The Commonwealth and states jointly fund 50/50 tests for… people who require a test as a result of state or territory health order.”

The Premier said the decision is a major win for common sense.

“Minister Hunt says the charge for a PCR test was only when a certificate is required,” the Premier said.

“Queensland made it plain weeks ago that the text message most people receive after a test is acceptable.”

The Premier said the confusion over the PCR requirement and its cost did not originate from her government.

“I am pleased this victory has occurred and people can look forward to being re-united in time for Christmas – without additional cost – as my government had always planned.”