Strict priorities are now in place for COVID testing at public health facilities across the western district to relieve the pressure on testing and pathology staff and resources at the state saw a record-breaking 11,201 new cases in the 24 hours to 8pm last night. 

Yesterday's figures revealed 73 new cases in the Western Local Health District (LHD) with 12 of those in western plains communities. 

Bogan Shire saw 3 new cases (all in Nyngan), Condobolin and Bourke 2, and Walgett, Gilgandra, Coolah, Gulargambone and Cobar recording one new case of covid each. 

With many small town testing facilities re-opening after a four day break over Christmas, the Western LHD has implemented an immediate priority list for those seeking tests at public health facilities such as hospitals and Multi Purpose Services (MPS). 

Hospital and MPS inpatients, healthcare workers and people showing symptoms of COVID-19 are top priorities, along with residents and staff of aged-care facilities. 

"Those identified as close contacts of a confirmed case of COVID-19 will be processed after those priority groups, and we urge patience should they be required to wait after presenting for testing," a LHD spokesperson said.  

Those requiring testing to enable interstate or overseas travel are generally not welcome at government-owned testing sites in the region. 

There are alternatives for those not in the priority groups, as the restrictions do not necessarily apply to private or external providers such as Laverty Pathology, Histopath or Barratt & Smith. 

"Testing is being strictly prioritised to help reduce the strain on WNSWLHD facilities and the NSW Health Pathology laboratories by limiting non-clinical or non-urgent testing within those facilities," the spokesperson said. 

Calling ahead to check eligibility and opening hours and register your details at local testing sites is highly recommended. Find your local site here.