Five methods for the detection of Strep. Agalactiae in milk samples were examined with special reference to their use as direct and indirect tests. Comparison was made of the sensitivity of all tests in detecting excretor cows. In the consideration of methods as direct tests particular attention was paid to their value for screening out frankly negative samples with the minimum amount of work. A newly developed test based on the CAMP reaction, the "spot" test, was found to combine high sensitivity and cheapness, and this is recommended for use under South Australian conditions.