Rapid Antigen Tests to become free for millions of Australians as COVID-19 cases rise nationwide

The announcement was made by the PM at a press conference this evening.

The Prime Minister has announced that rapid antigen tests will become free for millions of Australians, but despite some reports, not everyone is eligible.

During a press conference held following today's National Cabinet meeting, Scott Morrison said select concession card holders will be able to access the tests for free over a 3-month period, as COVID-19 cases continue to rise nationwide.

However, despite some media reports made just minutes before the press conference, the RATs will not be free for every single Aussie.

News Corp reported at around 5:10pm AEDT that the PM "(did) a huge backflip" and "agreed to make (RATs) free to all Australians," before deleting the tweet minutes later.

When asked how many RATs he had personally paid for, the PM told reporters that his wife, Jenny Morrison, was the one that "goes and gets them."

After previously saying they should be "affordable," Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said this morning that they should be made free for everyone.

NSW reported 35,054 new cases today, which is a new record for any Australian state or territory, while Victoria recorded 17,636.

WA was the only state not to attend National Cabinet.

Watch the full press conference here.