Most people in NSW get HIV and STI testing with a general practitioner (GP). GPs also provide CST (previously known as pap smears), contraception, PrEP and other services related to sexual health.

Where can I get tested?
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What should I be tested for?
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Which HIV test will I get?
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Other Infections
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When should I test?
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Where can I get tested?*

*SHIL does not favour or endorse particular services; links are provided as information only. Comprehensive disclaimer information is available here.

Most people in NSW get HIV and STI testing with a general practitioner (GP).  GPs also provide CST (previously known as pap smears), contraception, PrEP and other services related to sexual health.

Free testing is available with a Medicare card through any GP who bulk bills. Some specialist services are free even if you don't have Medicare or insurance.

Specialist services that may provide HIV and STI testing include:

Online Testing

  • Dry Blood Spot (DBS) - Free HIV & Hepatitis C test delivered to your home. Available in NSW only.
  • SmartHealth - skip the clinic visit and pay only for the STI/HIV tests by getting an online referral to your local pathology centre. Private companies such as SmartHealth offer pathology referral at a cost. Other companies may provide similar services so check what you can find online and compare prices

Self Testing

  • Rapid HIV home testing kit for a cost, available across Australia
  • MyTest -Test your health in private with a free MyTest HIV self-test kit - Results are available in 15 minutes. MyTest HIV self-test kits can be collected from vending machines across NSW.
For information about which service is right for you call 1800 451 624‍

What should I be tested for?

A full sexual health screen usually includes testing for the following STIs:

Information in other languages about all of these infections can be found here.

‍These days, testing is simple. If you don't have any genital symptoms, you don't even need to get undressed. Click here for HIV and STI testing referral letter to take to your GP.

‍For more information about HIV and other STIs call 1800 451 624.

Which HIV test will I get?

The 4th Generation Combined Antigen/Antibody HIV test is the most accurate way to detect HIV and is the standard HIV test done in Australia.

The Rapid HIV Test is a finger prick test that can give a preliminary HIV result within 30 minutes. In Australia this is available at some specialist services or for private purchase online via here.

All HIV tests in Australia have a 3 month window period (this is the time after a possible risk you need to wait) for the HIV result to be 100% accurate and conclusive. Rapid testing means you get the results quickly, it doesn't shorten the window period.

What about other infections?

Herpes

Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus - HSV) is diagnosed by swabbing any blisters/ulcers on the genital skin. Blood testing is not recommended as part of a standard STI screen when no symptoms are present.

Herpes is very common and rarely severe. To learn what's fact versus fiction, call 1800 451 624 or get more info here.

Find out more

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Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma Genitalium (MG) is a bacterial infection of the urethra of the penis and the cervix (the opening to the uterus). It's tested by a swab or a urine sample when symptoms are present. It isn't tested when there are no symptoms.

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Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis can cause a lot more vaginal discharge and an unpleasant smell. It usually doesn't have symptoms in the penis, but can cause irritation when passing urine. It is uncommon in most of Australia and so is usually not part of a standard STI screen.

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Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is passed when the blood of an infected person enters the bloodstream of an uninfected person. This may happen through sharing needles, syringes, spoons, tourniquets and other injecting equipment, needle stick injuries, or tattooing and body piercing with non-sterile equipment.

Find out more

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For more information about HIV & other STIs call SHIL

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When should I test?

You should test as soon as possible if:

  • You've noticed symptoms in the genitals or anus, for example: unexplained discharge, pain when passing urine, broken skin, a rash, lumps, pain during sex, vaginal bleeding between periods or during sex, or anal bleeding at any time.
  • A sexual partner has been diagnosed with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, urethritis, syphilis, hepatitis B, or HIV (even if you don't have symptoms yourself).

You should test at least once a year if:

  • You're sexually active with anyone.

You should test 3-6 monthly if:

  • You're a man (cis or trans) who has sex with more than one male partner or are in an open relationship with another man.
  • You're taking PrEP
  • You're at high risk of HIV/STIs
For individualised advice about when you should test call 1800 451 624

Acknowledgement of Country

The Sexual Health Infolink acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land and waters where our offices are located. As a state-wide service, we further acknowledge the diverse Aboriginal peoples across New South Wales and their continuing connection to Country and culture. We pay our respect to Elders past and present.

NSW Government

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