Medical certificates are an essential part of sick leave policies in Australia, providing employees with official documentation to justify their absence from work. However, many employees wonder: Can an employer reject a medical certificate?
This guide explores the legality of medical certificates, employer rights, and what steps employees can take if their medical certificate is rejected.
🔗 Related Read: What Are Your Rights When Taking Sick Leave in Australia?
✅ Yes, in most cases. According to Fair Work Australia, a valid medical certificate serves as sufficient proof of illness unless there are reasonable doubts about its legitimacy. Employers must recognize a properly issued certificate from:
✔ Registered Australian doctors
✔ Licensed telehealth providers
✔ Pharmacists (for minor illnesses, where applicable)
✔ Hospitals or medical specialists
🚨 Employers cannot simply refuse a medical certificate without valid reasons. If they do, employees have legal protections under workplace laws.
🔗 Learn More: Are Online Medical Certificates Legal in Australia?
Employers can question or reject a medical certificate under these conditions:
❌ Incomplete or Invalid Information – If the certificate lacks details such as the doctor’s registration number, date, or necessary employer information.
❌ Fraudulent Certificates – If there are signs of forgery, false claims, or the issuing provider is unlicensed.
❌ Does Not Align With Workplace Policy – Some workplaces have internal policies requiring a certificate after one day of sick leave, while others accept self-certification for short absences.
❌ Backdated Certificates – Employers may reject backdated certificates unless the doctor justifies the reason for issuing them retrospectively.
If your employer questions your medical certificate, they must provide a valid reason and cannot dismiss it simply because it was issued online.
🔗 Check Out: How Long Can You Take Sick Leave Before You Need a Doctor’s Certificate?
✅ Yes! Medical certificates issued by licensed telehealth doctors are legally valid in Australia. Fair Work Australia does not differentiate between an in-person and telehealth-issued medical certificate, as long as:
✔ The doctor is registered with AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency).
✔ The certificate includes all necessary details, such as the doctor’s name, registration number, and date of issue.
✔ The document is not tampered with or altered.
🚀 Need a fast, legally recognized online medical certificate? Visit MedCurate.com.au and get yours today!
🔗 More Info: How to Talk to Your Employer About Taking Sick Leave
If your employer unfairly rejects your medical certificate, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Ask for Written Justification – Request a clear reason for rejection in writing.
2️⃣ Verify Certificate Details – Ensure your certificate meets all legal requirements.
3️⃣ Refer to Fair Work Australia – Highlight that valid medical certificates must be accepted.
4️⃣ Seek Legal Advice – If necessary, consult Fair Work Ombudsman or an employment lawyer.
🔗 Further Reading: Fit-for-Work Certificates Explained
Employers cannot reject a medical certificate without justification. If issued by a registered Australian doctor, whether in person or via telehealth, it is legally valid. If your employer refuses to accept a legitimate certificate, you have rights and legal options.
🚀 Need a hassle-free, legally accepted medical certificate? Get yours today at MedCurate.com.au.
🔗 Related Read: Workplace Burnout: When to Take Sick Leave & Get Support
DR. R. Singh
