Last Updated on 18 April 2025 by Brisbane Livewell Clinic
How to Get an Allergy Test in Australia – Options and Prices Explained
Allergy testing in Australia can be done through your GP, specialist or private provider depending on your symptoms and the type of test you need. From skin prick tests to IgE and IgG blood tests, there are several ways to identify allergic or intolerant responses to foods, environmental triggers, or chemical substances. At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we guide patients through the process of choosing the most accurate and relevant allergy test for their situation, helping to reduce symptoms like rashes, bloating, brain fog, sinus issues or fatigue.
Key Takeaways
Allergy testing in Australia is available through public and private providers depending on the type of test.
GPs and specialists usually offer IgE skin or blood tests for acute allergies and anaphylaxis.
Naturopaths and private labs offer IgG food intolerance testing and chemical sensitivity panels.
Brisbane Livewell Clinic helps select the most useful test based on your symptoms and history.
Test costs range from $60–$500 depending on the panel size and provider.
Introduction
If you’re reacting to food, skin products, pets or pollen—and you’re not sure what’s causing it—an allergy test can help you identify the trigger. But with so many options available, it’s important to understand the differences between test types so you can choose one that provides real answers.
At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we help patients figure out whether they’re dealing with an allergy, an intolerance or an immune reactivity pattern, then arrange testing through appropriate pathology labs. Once results are in, we create a tailored strategy to reduce inflammation, improve gut health and stabilise the immune system.
Types of Allergy Tests Available in Australia
- IgE Allergy Testing
- Ordered through a GP, allergist or immunologist
- Detects immediate, antibody-based reactions (e.g. peanuts, shellfish, bee stings)
- Useful for anaphylaxis, eczema, hayfever, asthma and hives
- Conducted via blood test or skin prick testing
- Covered by Medicare if referred by a GP or specialist
- IgG Food Intolerance Testing
- Measures delayed immune response to foods (symptoms may appear hours or days later)
- Available privately through functional pathology labs
- Useful for IBS, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, mood issues and skin problems
- IgG4 tests typically analyse 40–96 foods in one panel
- Not covered by Medicare
- Skin Prick Testing
- Performed by allergy specialists or dermatologists
- Tiny amounts of allergens are introduced to the skin to test for reactions
- Used for common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander and foods
- Covered under Medicare when referred by a GP
- Patch Testing
- Used for contact dermatitis and chemical sensitivities
- Patches with allergens are placed on the skin for 48–72 hours
- Interpreted by dermatologists or allergy specialists
- Best for cosmetics, nickel, preservatives and topical triggers
- Combined Panels
- Some private labs offer combined IgE/IgG panels for broader coverage
- Ideal when it’s unclear whether a response is allergic or delayed
- Usually used in chronic or complex cases
What’s the Difference Between Allergy and Intolerance?
- Allergy (IgE) – Causes an immediate immune reaction, often with hives, swelling, breathing issues or rashes. Can be life-threatening.
- Intolerance (IgG) – Triggers delayed symptoms such as bloating, headaches, fatigue, mood swings or joint pain. Often linked to gut health or immune dysfunction.
Brisbane Livewell Clinic focuses on intolerance and gut-immune support, working in conjunction with GPs or specialists for allergy referrals where needed.
Symptoms That May Indicate You Need Testing
Consider testing if you experience:
- Chronic sinus congestion or post-nasal drip
- Skin flare-ups like eczema, hives or acne
- Digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea or constipation
- Migraines or unexplained headaches
- Ongoing fatigue despite sleep and rest
- Mood swings, anxiety or brain fog
- Respiratory reactions to dust, pets or pollen
- Food triggers that seem inconsistent or hard to identify
Testing helps eliminate guesswork and speeds up your recovery by pinpointing the real cause.
How Much Does Allergy Testing Cost?
Test Type | Price Range | Medicare Rebate | Provider |
IgE blood or skin prick test | $0–$120 | Yes (with GP) | GP, allergist, immunologist |
IgG food intolerance test (40+) | $250–$350 | No | Naturopath or private lab |
IgG food panel (96+ foods) | $350–$500 | No | Brisbane Livewell Clinic |
Patch testing (chemical) | $100–$200 | Sometimes | Dermatologist |
Combined IgE + IgG panel | $400–$600 | No | Functional pathology labs |
We only recommend tests that are likely to change how we support your case—saving you money and helping you get results.
Allergy Testing Through Brisbane Livewell Clinic
We help you choose the right test based on your:
- Current symptoms and how they present
- Medical history and past test results
- Suspected triggers
- Existing diagnosis (if any)
- Goals and level of sensitivity
You’ll receive a detailed explanation of your test results and a tailored plan that may include dietary adjustments, gut repair, immune support, and supplements.
We also work alongside your GP or specialist if a medical allergy diagnosis or anaphylaxis history is involved.
What Happens After the Test?
You’ll receive a report showing your reactivity to tested foods or substances. Your Naturopath will:
- Explain what the results mean in real-world terms
- Create an elimination or rotation plan
- Support gut and immune repair to reduce reactivity
- Reintroduce low-reactivity foods over time where possible
- Recommend probiotics, enzymes or nutrients to reduce inflammation
This ensures your results lead to action—not just restriction.
Conclusion
Getting an allergy test in Australia is more accessible than ever, but choosing the right type of test is essential. At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we take the confusion out of the process and help you understand what’s driving your symptoms—so you can make clear, effective changes. Whether it’s IgE, IgG or a more complex panel, we’ll guide you through every step and provide the support you need to feel better, faster.
FAQs
1. How do I get an allergy test in Australia?
You can get an allergy test through a GP, specialist or Naturopath depending on the test. Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers private IgG intolerance testing and support.
2. What’s the difference between IgE and IgG testing?
IgE tests identify immediate allergies, while IgG tests detect delayed food intolerances. Both help identify different types of immune responses.
3. Is allergy testing covered by Medicare?
IgE tests ordered by a GP may be bulk-billed or partially covered. IgG food intolerance tests are not covered and are paid privately.
4. Can Naturopaths do allergy testing?
Yes, Naturopaths can order IgG intolerance and food sensitivity panels. Brisbane Livewell Clinic works with accredited pathology labs for testing.
5. What symptoms might mean I need an allergy test?
Skin rashes, bloating, fatigue, congestion and brain fog may all suggest food or environmental triggers. Testing helps identify the cause.
6. How much does food intolerance testing cost?
Costs range from $250 to $500 depending on the panel. We help you choose the most appropriate test to suit your symptoms and budget.
7. Are skin prick tests better than blood tests?
Skin prick tests are useful for IgE reactions. Blood tests may be better for people with skin conditions or on medications that interfere with skin testing.
8. Can food intolerances cause fatigue and brain fog?
Yes, delayed food reactions can affect mood, energy and focus. IgG testing helps uncover these hidden sensitivities.
9. Is allergy testing painful?
Blood and skin prick tests involve minor discomfort. IgG testing uses a blood spot or venous sample and is well tolerated.
10. What happens after I get my results?
Your Naturopath will explain the findings, help you adjust your diet, and provide supplements to support recovery and reduce symptoms.
11. Can allergy testing be done at home?
Some IgG and intolerance kits can be done at home and returned to a lab. Brisbane Livewell Clinic can organise this and interpret the results.
Our Amazing Naturopaths at Brisbane Livewell Clinic
Shella Hall (Sunshine Coast and online)
Amy Angus (Wavell Heights and online)
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Nicole Odlum (Wavell Heights and online)
Dominique Johanson (Wavell Heights and online)
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