Federal Funding Unlocks New Health Access Opportunity

Atomo Diagnostics (ASX:AT1) has received a $230,000 order from Thorne Harbour Health (THH) to support the national rollout of its HIV self-test kits through public-funded vending machines. The initiative is part of the Federal Government’s CONNECT Programme, announced in the May 2024 Budget, and signals a shift toward self-testing as a mainstream tool in Australia’s public health response.

Backed By A Government Budget Commitment

The vending machine rollout will offer free HIV self-tests nationally and is distinct from the “MyTest” program already underway in New South Wales. CONNECT is being coordinated out of South Australia, with THH operating across both South Australia and Victoria. The dual programs highlight a broader governmental push to normalise and expand self-testing accessibility across state lines.

“We are excited about the growing adoption of HIV self-testing as critical to the government’s efforts in the fight against HIV,” said Atomo CEO John Kelly. “This program represents a meaningful step in the delivery of convenient, community-based HIV testing.”

“We look forward to continuing our work with THH and other partners to ensure these tests are available where they are needed most,” Kelly said, referencing the importance of providing testing options in both urban and regional settings.

New Zealand Retail Launch Opens Regional Expansion

Alongside its Australian scale-up, Atomo has launched its HIV self-test in New Zealand via Chemist Warehouse—the country’s largest pharmacy retailer. The product’s registration and release into this new market signals growing regional demand for easy-to-use self-diagnostics.

“We’re pleased to expand into the New Zealand market and will continue to seek out international pharmacy retail channels that offer meaningful market access,” Kelly added.

Patented Technology Supports Diverse Testing Applications

Atomo’s diagnostic devices are designed for use in both clinical and at-home environments. The company’s patented technology simplifies test procedures and improves reliability. Beyond HIV, Atomo supplies rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for infectious diseases including COVID-19, viral vs bacterial differentiation, and pregnancy detection.

With further government funding secured to expand the HIV self-test program through 2026, Atomo is well-positioned to benefit from ongoing national investment in accessible health technologies. The rollout highlights a broader trend in diagnostics—where self-testing is increasingly viewed as a cost-effective, scalable solution to public health challenges.

By embedding its products into programs with national reach and public backing, Atomo is carving out a leadership position in a sector with growing demand. For shareholders and industry watchers alike, this national scale-up is a sign of the company’s ability to turn regulatory alignment and healthcare trends into commercial outcomes.