Hi hixxy82, I have not had Lyme testing done, but I know many who have (not from Australia though). The Australian reports I have heard of are all second hand, so I cannot be 100% sure. However, back in 1999 it was reported that there were only 7 cases of Lyme in Australia per year that were not due to overseas travel (the 1999 Sydney ME/CFS conference). Part of this will be that doctors simply don't get patients tested however. Personally, I think if you have the bulls-eye rash or were bloodsucked by a tick just prior to getting ill, then testing should be routine. Maybe if testing were more routine they would invest in better tests.
The recommendations will of course vary because they are based on experience: people try a lab and decide if they are happy with the service. Bye, Alex