Rapid antigen tests double in price in Australia amid concerns of price-gouging

Reports cost of RAT kits soaring as federal government considers calling in consumer watchdog

• Follow our Australia news live blog for the latest updates
• Vaccine rollout and rates tracker; Cases and data tracker
• Get our free news app; get our morning email briefing

Any official crackdown on price-gouging of rapid antigen tests in Australia is unlikely, despite government suggestions it will get the consumer watchdog involved amid reports the kits have doubled in price as stock disappears from shelves.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has previously noted price gouging is generally not illegal", meaning its ability to respond is likely to be limited unless specific circumstances are involved.