It' hoped the $320 test and isolate payment which has now been made available for eligible Dubbo residents will help improve low testing numbers across the region.
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The announcement came on Tuesday morning, and is backdated to Thursday September 9, meaning if you had a test on or after that date, you could be eligible for the payment.
Previously, it was only available to LGAs deemed 'hotspots', but has now been expanded state-wide.
Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders pointed out that Dubbo's status has not been classified as a 'hotspot'.
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"Up until this point it's only been in...the 12 local government areas in Sydney which are regarded as hotspots, none of our area is regarded as a hotspot," he told media on Tuesday.
It's hoped the payment will encouraged residents to get tested early if displaying any symptoms, or if they're classified as a casual contact.
Testing numbers remain a concern for health authorities, with the total number of tests across the Western NSW LHD on Monday just 2,400.
"It's to encourage you to test early and isolate if you have any COVID symptoms or any concerns," Mr Saunders said. "We know how difficult it has been for some people to take time off work - often without pay - while waiting for a test result.
"Most people are now receiving their results within 24 hours, but we know the reality is that the more people are getting tested, the longer those results take - and we need more people to get tested to help get on top of this situation."
You are not eligible for the payment if you are able to work from home during the self-isolation period, receive any income during that period, have access to sick or carers leave, or special pandemic leave, or if you are receiving any income support from either the Australian or NSW governments. That includes if you receive the micro-business grant of JobSaver.
The full list of eligibility criteria is on the Service NSW website.
"I hope this payment will help take the pressure off you if you don't have access to any leave entitlements, or other support payments," Mr Saunders said.
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