More Australians believe the government should provide free COVID-19 rapid antigen tests (RAT), according to a recent survey by the Australia Institute, a public policy think tank based in Canberra. The survey, which polled a representative sample of 1,000 Australians between Jan.11 and 14, found that 72 percent of respondents believed RATs should be distributed free of charge, while 16 percent believe that retailers should continue to sell the product. Australian states and territories have transitioned formal testing requirements away from the more costly PCR to RAT. However, the transition has been plagued with product shortages caused by the sudden spike in demand. This in turn, has led to steeper RAT prices. According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), said despite wholesale costs between $3.95 and $11.45 per test, retail prices of $20 to $30 have been common, with some convenience stores, service stations, and small supermarkets charging …