18/08/2021

If you need to self-isolate and are unable to work while waiting for your coronavirus (COVID-19) test result, you may be eligible for the COVID-19 Test and Isolate support payment.

NSW workers can apply for the $320 payment if they:

Applications are now open for tests taken on or after 13 August 2021. You'll need to apply for the payment within 7 days of having the test.


Eligibility

To be eligible you must:

  • be aged 17 years or over
  • live in one of the following local government areas (LGAs) of concern
  • have had a COVID-19 test (nose and throat swabs known as PCR tests) due to experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, or be the carer or guardian of someone who has had a test due to experiencing symptoms 
  • have needed to self-isolate after your COVID-19 test, or be the carer or guardian for someone who needed to self-isolate after their test
  • be likely to have worked during the period of self-isolation and are unable to work due to:
    • being required to self-isolate following a COVID-19 test
    • having to care for someone who is required to self-isolate following a COVID-19 test.

You are not eligible if you:

  • can work from home during your time of self-isolation
  • receive any income, earnings or salary during your time of self-isolation
  • have access to sick leave, carers leave or special pandemic leave 
  • receive income support from the Australian Government (including the COVID-19 Disaster Payment or Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment) or financial support from the NSW Government (such as the micro-business grant or JobSaver payment) during your time of self-isolation
  • have been directed by NSW Health to test and isolate as you’re a close contact of a known case 
  • have had a rapid antigen test
  • are an essential worker living in an eligible LGA and are required to test every 3 days.

What you need
  • a MyServiceNSW Account – you can create one when you start your application
  • details of the date, time and location of your COVID-19 test (including the reference number provided by NSW Health or the testing facility, if known)
  • one proof of identity document such as your Australian Drivers Licence, Medicare card or passport
  • proof of address such as a rates notice, lease agreement or utility bill
  • proof of employment or self-employment such as a payslip, contract, letter from employer or ABN
  • your bank account details for payment.

Note: You will have to repay the $320 payment if you:

  • do not self-isolate while waiting for your results
  • provide false or misleading information in your claim.

How to apply
  • Check you meet the eligibility criteria.
  • Have your documentation and evidence ready for uploading.
  • Select the ‘Apply online’ button.
  • Log in, or create your MyServiceNSW Account.
  • Verify your identity.
  • Confirm your personal details.
  • Answer the eligibility questions.
  • Enter details of your COVID-19 test.
  • Attach supporting proof of employment and proof of address documents.
  • Enter your bank account details.
  • Review your application.
  • Complete the declarations.
  • Submit your application.

After you submit your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your application reference number. 

Successful applicants will be paid the $320 lump sum within 3 days of submitting their application.


More information
  • You must agree to follow NSW Health's self-isolation guidelines while waiting for your COVID-19 test results. 
  • You can only apply for the COVID-19 Test and Isolate support payment once every 30 days, from the date of the COVID-19 test.