A sexual health check should not require an awkward waiting room conversation, time off work, or a long trip to a clinic. If you are wondering how to get a sexual health referral, the process can be simple: speak with a GP or sexual health service, or request a pathology referral through an eligible online provider. Then attend a pathology collection centre for the tests you need.
Whether you have symptoms, a new partner, a recent condom break, or simply want reassurance, getting tested is a normal part of looking after your health. You do not need to wait until something feels wrong.
What is a sexual health referral?
In Australia, people often use the word “referral” to mean a pathology request. This is the form or electronic request that lets a pathology provider collect and process samples for STI testing.
It is different from a specialist referral. A specialist referral is usually needed when a doctor sends you to a sexual health physician, gynaecologist, urologist, or another specialist for ongoing assessment or treatment. For a routine STI screen, you will generally need a pathology request rather than a specialist referral.
The tests included depend on your situation. A clinician may recommend testing for chlamydia and gonorrhoea, and may also include blood tests for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C where appropriate. The right tests depend on your sexual history, symptoms, the type of sex you have had, and when potential exposure occurred.
How to get a sexual health referral
There are three common ways to arrange a sexual health pathology request in Australia. The best option depends on what feels comfortable, how quickly you need care, and whether you have symptoms that need an examination.
Visit your regular GP
A GP can discuss your concerns, arrange STI testing, and examine you if needed. This can be a good option if you have ongoing health conditions, are pregnant, need contraception advice, or would feel more comfortable discussing symptoms in person.
You can keep the conversation straightforward. Tell the GP you would like an STI screen, explain whether you have symptoms, and mention any recent exposure that concerns you. Doctors have these conversations every day. Their role is to help, not judge.
Some people prefer not to use their regular clinic because they want more privacy or do not want to discuss sexual health with a doctor they see for other reasons. That is valid too. You can choose another GP clinic or a dedicated sexual health service.
Attend a sexual health clinic
Public sexual health clinics may offer testing, treatment, and specialist advice. They can be especially useful if you have symptoms, need complex care, have had a possible HIV exposure, or need support with partner notification.
Appointment availability varies by location. In some areas, clinics prioritise people with symptoms or higher-risk exposures, so routine asymptomatic testing may involve a wait. If access is limited where you live, a GP or telehealth service may be more convenient.
Request a referral online
Telehealth-led services allow eligible adults to complete a private online health questionnaire and request a pathology referral without a traditional face-to-face appointment. This can suit people with busy schedules, those in regional or remote areas, or anyone who would rather manage the first step discreetly.
With a provider such as STI Clinic Australia, the process generally involves completing an online assessment, receiving a doctor-reviewed pathology request where clinically appropriate, and visiting a major pathology collection centre. You provide the required samples, then your results are reviewed and follow-up support is available if needed.
Online testing is not a replacement for urgent care or an in-person examination when one is needed. If you have significant symptoms, severe pain, fever, sores, a rash, unusual bleeding, or testicular swelling, seek prompt medical care rather than relying only on an online request.
What information will you be asked for?
A short sexual health assessment helps make sure the request covers the right tests. You may be asked about symptoms, when you last had sex, whether you used condoms or barriers, the genders of your partners, and the kinds of sex you have had.
These questions are clinical, not personal judgement. For example, throat and rectal swabs may be recommended after oral or anal sex because urine testing alone may not detect an infection at those sites. Sharing accurate information gives you a more useful result and reduces the chance of missing an infection.
You may also be asked if you have previously had an STI, whether a partner has tested positive, and whether you are taking HIV PrEP. If you are unsure of dates or details, say so. An estimate is still helpful.
What happens after you receive the pathology request?
Once your referral is issued, you can attend the nominated pathology provider during its opening hours. Many collection centres accept walk-ins, but requirements can vary, so check the instructions you receive with your request.
The sample type depends on the tests ordered. It may involve a urine sample, a blood test, or swabs from the throat, vagina, penis, rectum, or any area with symptoms. Collection staff are trained professionals and will explain what is required. If you are nervous, let them know. You can ask questions before anything happens.
You should not usually urinate for at least one hour before providing a urine sample for chlamydia and gonorrhoea testing, unless your clinician gives different instructions. Follow the directions supplied with your referral, as preparation can vary by test.
Results are reviewed by a doctor or clinician. If an STI is detected, treatment and next steps can be discussed confidentially. Many common STIs are treatable, and prompt treatment helps protect your health and reduces the chance of passing an infection on.
Can Medicare cover sexual health testing?
Many pathology tests can be bulk billed for Medicare card holders when they are clinically indicated and requested appropriately. However, costs can vary depending on the provider, the type of tests requested, your Medicare eligibility, and whether there is a consultation or telehealth fee.
Do not assume every part of every service is free. Check the pricing and Medicare information before you submit an online request or book an appointment. Clear costs upfront make it easier to choose the option that works for you.
If you do not have Medicare, you can still access testing through many private providers, although out-of-pocket fees may apply.
When should you get tested?
Testing is worth considering after sex with a new partner, sex without a condom or other barrier, a condom break, a partner telling you they have an STI, or any symptoms that could be linked to an infection. Symptoms can include unusual discharge, pain when urinating, genital sores, itching, pelvic pain, bleeding after sex, or testicular pain.
Many STIs have no symptoms at all. That is why testing is not only for people who feel unwell. Routine screening can offer peace of mind and help identify infections early.
Timing matters. Some infections may not show up immediately after exposure, while testing too late can mean unnecessary worry in the meantime. A clinician can advise whether to test now, repeat testing later, or both. If you have had a possible exposure to HIV in the past 72 hours, seek urgent medical advice immediately because post-exposure treatment may be time-sensitive.
Privacy, results and telling partners
Your sexual health information is private health information. A GP, clinic, pathology provider, or telehealth service should handle it confidentially. If privacy at home is a concern, check how a provider communicates results and whether you can choose email, SMS, phone, or a secure patient portal.
If you receive a positive result, telling recent sexual partners can feel daunting, but it gives them the chance to test and get treatment. Your clinician can explain which partners may need to know and support you with the conversation. Some services can also help with anonymous notification options.
There is no need to feel embarrassed about asking for a referral. Testing is a practical act of care for yourself and the people you have sex with. Choose the pathway that feels manageable, get the right tests for your circumstances, and take the next step when you are ready.