Regular HIV testing is important as it allows people to know if they have HIV and start treatment soon after diagnosis. HIV treatments can stop HIV being passed to others and enable people with HIV to live long and healthy lives.

We understand the concerns that can come with HIV testing, which is why there are many different HIV testing options in NSW. You can choose a testing option that works best for you so you can test without fear.

Testing is private, results are confidential, and there are many free testing options available.​

To protect yourself and your family get a HIV test today.

Discover HIV testing options

There are many HIV testing options – rapid self-tests​ (including from a vending machine), finger prick tests and blood tests, so there is a test to suit you.

Finger prick test

The finger prick test is a free, easy and private way to test for HIV and hepatitis C.

You can order a finger prick kit online without needing to visit a doctor. You can take your sample in a private place or at home and return it to the lab for free.

Order a finger prick kit

See the video below on how to collect your finger prick sample.

Vending machines – rapid self-test kits

Across NSW MyTest vending machines​ provide free, rapid HIV self-test kits. The self-test can be done anywhere you choose, and you receive your results in 15 minutes. To get a fast and private self-test kit, go to: MyTest.​

Other HIV rapid self-​test options

There are other rapid self-test options, which are discreet to access, easy to use, and results are highly accurate. You can get a self-test kit from:

• hivtest.au (free to order)
  
• atomo (cost to buy)
• Community pharmacies - ‘over the counter’ self-test kits, like atomo, are available for sale.
  

Other op​​​​​tions

You can get a HIV test from a health professional in a safe, confidential, and caring environment. Health professionals are there to support you without judgment, and your well-being is their top priority. You can get tested:

• For free at a Sexual Health Clinic​
  
• At a doctor (general practice) (possible cost to attend):

Who should get tested for HIV?

You should get tested for HIV if you are a man who has sex with other men, or if you think you have been at risk.​

​​How to prevent HIV and other sexually transmissible infections (STIs)?

The best way to protect yourself and others from HIV and other STIs is to have safe sex:

• Always use condoms for anal or vaginal sex – condoms are the best way to prevent HIV and other STIs.
• Talk to a doctor about taking Pr​EP (HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis) – this medication, when taken correctly, prevents you from being infected with HIV.

See HIV prevention - Ending HIV for more information.

Talk to a health professional (100% confidential)

You can have a confidential conversation with a nurse about HIV and STI testing, prevention and treatment:

• Call the NSW Sexual Health Infolink on 1800 451 624 (9am to 5.30pm).
• For the Translating and Interpreting Service information in Arabic, call 131 450.​