Getting tested for sexually transmissible infections (STIs) is an important part of looking after your health. But did you know you can request an STI test from your own home? Online STI testing makes it easier than ever to access important health services, and it’s available right here in NSW!
What is online STI testing?
Online STI testing is a way to find out if you have an STI without needing to visit a doctor or sexual health clinic in person. In NSW, this type of testing usually involves requesting an STI test online, receiving a pathology referral and taking that referral to a pathology collection centre of your choosing to get tested. Results are usually provided in a few days, online or over the phone, which makes the whole process quick, discreet, and convenient.
If you are experiencing any symptoms or have had unprotected sex in the last 72 hours, online testing may not be for you. If think you may have been exposed to HIV please click here or visit your local emergency department. If you think you may need emergency contraception, click here.
What is a pathology referral?
A pathology referral is a document that you take to an accredited pathology collection centre so they know what samples to collect, what tests to run and where to send the results. You must bring the referral with you to get tested.
Many online STI testing services send pathology referrals to patients via email or text and it may come as an attachment, link, barcode or QR code. To learn more about this, contact the service you have chosen to use or your preferred pathology collection centre.
Did you know? Most pathology collection centres in NSW accept referrals from any doctor or pathology providers, regardless of the lab or provider name on the form.
o I get an online STI test?
- Choose a reputable online STI testing service
- The service will ask you to provide more information (via a form or a telehealth appointment with a doctor) to determine the tests you need
- You should receive your pathology referral via email or text within a few minutes
- Take the pathology referral to any pathology collection centre
- The pathology staff will collect your samples which usually includes a blood test and either a urine test or swab. They will then send your samples off for testing.
- Result times vary from service to service but are usually available within a few days but can take up to one week. The service will typically send through your results via a secure online platform, email, text message or sometimes by phone.
How much does online STI testing cost?
The cost of online STI testing in NSW varies. Some services are free if you have a Medicare card, others might charge a fee. It should not cost more than about $50-$100 depending on whether you are using a Medicare card or not. Reputable services should have clear pricing information on their website, so if you’re having trouble figuring out how much it will cost, consider choosing another service.
Always check the total cost, as some services charge separately for each STI they test for, including infections that are not recommended by sexual health doctors.
Are online STI tests reliable?
Yes. Online STI tests are generally reliable when provided by a reputable service and accredited pathology laboratory. Just like getting a test through your doctor or a sexual health clinic, reputable services process STI tests through accredited pathology labs. The only approved STI self-test in Australia is the Atomo HIV self-test. Websites offering self-tests for other STIs including chlamydia are not recommended in Australia.
How do I choose an online STI testing service?
When choosing an online STI testing service, make sure you check that the service offers:
- Accredited pathology lab testing (important for reliable results)
- Confidentiality and clear information on data privacy (keeps your information safe)
- Transparent pricing so there are no surprises (shouldn’t cost more than about $50-$100)
- Clear communication about what you need to do and how and when results are provided
- Follow-up support if you test positive including treatment and counselling
It’s also a good idea to check online reviews for services to hear how other people found the process.
What STIs are tested for?
Most reputable online STI testing services should test for the following STIs as standard:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- HIV
- Hepatitis B and C
There are a number of services that offer tested for other infections that are not recommended in Australia. If you’re not sure what you need to be tested for, you can always speak to one of our sexual health nurses free on 1800 451 624.
Where can I go if I don’t want to order a test online?
If online testing isn’t for you, there are plenty of in-person options. General practitioners (GPs), sexual health clinics, and some community health centers offer STI testing. Read more about different STI testing options or find an STI testing location near you.
Whether you prefer to order your STI test online or visit your doctor or local clinic in person, the main thing is that you get tested regularly. Read more about STI testing.
If you need further support around getting an STI test, interpreting your results, or figuring out what to do if you have tested positive for an STI, contact your local doctor or sexual health clinic or explore these services:
- Sexual Health Info Link – NSW Health free sexual health advice line
- Healthdirect – 24 hour free health advice
- Lifeline – 24 hour free crisis and mental health support
- Talkline – free reproductive and sexual health hotline run by Family Planning Australia
- Better to Know – sexual health support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Twenty10 – LGBTQIA+ free counselling for people in NSW
Frequently asked questions
What is STI testing?
STI testing is the process of running medical tests to check for any sexually transmissible infections (STIs). It is quick, easy, and confidential. Most STI tests only require a blood test and either a self-collected swab or a urine sample.
Do I need to get an STI test?
Anyone who is sexually active (oral, vaginal, or anal sex) needs to get tested for STIs. Remember, many STIs don’t show any symptoms, so to keep you and your partner/s safe, it’s important to be tested regularly.
How often do I need to get tested?
We typically suggest getting an STI test every 6-12 months, but this will depend on a number of things including how many sexual partners you have, what kind of sex you have, your sexual health history, what medication you take (e.g. PrEP), if you are pregnant, or looking to become pregnant, and more. That’s why it’s important to be honest about your sexual history with your doctor or nurse so they can give you the best advice. You can also speak to a sexual health nurse over the phone for free via our confidential Sexual Health Infolink service.
Can I get order an STI test online if I have symptoms?
If you’re experiencing any symptoms or think you might have an STI, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with a doctor or visit your local sexual health clinic so they can give you a physical examination.
I don’t have a Medicare card. Can I still order an STI test online?
Yes, you can still order an STI test online even if you don’t have a Medicare card. If you’re covered by a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement, Overseas Visitors Health Covers (OVHC) or Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) your test may be covered. If you are not covered under any of these options, you may have to pay for the test at the pathology collection centre on the day or when they send you an invoice. Contact your preferred pathology collection centre for more information.
What happens if I test positive for an STI?
If you have tested positive for an STI, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried, or unsure about what’s next. Rest assured, STIs are common, and most can be treated. Each service will have a different way of managing a positive STI result, so it’s best to chat to them directly.
Typically, if the STI can be treated with a simple prescription, the service will send you a script that you can take to your local pharmacy. If the STI requires further treatment, the service will likely set up an appointment for you to speak with a doctor to discuss a treatment or management plan. You can also take the result to a different doctor if you would prefer.
