Goulburn and Wollondilly MPs give a RATs

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In a LinkedIn post, Mr Elliott said that Members of State Parliament would receive free rapid antigen tests.

"Please be advised that these free tests were unsolicited by me or my office," he said.

"I spoke to domestic violence caseworkers servicing my electorate and have decided that I will be donating any tests received at my office to The Sanctuary - The Hills Women's Shelter in Castle Hill.

"They will be used to keep women and children who are guests of The Sanctuary safe.

"I also thank my electorate staff for agreeing to forfeit these tests.

"The decision to distribute free tests to politicians was stupid."

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Minister for Local Government and Goulburn MP Wendy Tuckerman has donated her supply of RATs to Upper Lachlan Shire Council.

A spokesperson from Ms Tuckerman's office said the council had contacted the office before the allocation of RATs.

"The council raised their concerns - shared across the entire community - in regards to a lack of access to tests impacting their staffing levels and ability to conduct essential service delivery, such as water, sewer and waste operations," they said.

"As such Ms Tuckerman will supply the tests so the council to ensure staff can maintain systems."

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An Upper Lachlan Council Shire spokesperson confirmed that they had received 20 RAT kits from Ms Tuckerman's office.

A spokesperson for Wollondilly MP Nathaniel Smith said he had not solicited or received any free RAT kits.

"Mr Smith continues to advocate adherence to COVID safe measures per NSW Health guidelines," they said.

"This includes the use of Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT), purchased at his own expense, to keep those he comes into contact with safe.

"Independent of the NSW Government, the Department of Parliamentary Services has publicly indicated that they intend to provide a limited supply of RAT kits to electorate offices.

"These are to be used by electorate staff who have physical contact with the public. Mr Smith stresses that many people that attend his office are some of the most vulnerable in the community.

"Following the health guidelines and using rapid tests keeps those people and the community safe."

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