Doctor's Note vs Medical Certificate: What's the Difference?

In Australia, "doctor's note" and "medical certificate" are often used interchangeably, but technically they can mean different things. Here's what you need to know to give your employer the right documentation.

What's the Difference?

Medical Certificate

A medical certificate is a formal document that:

• States you're unfit for work due to illness or injury
• Includes specific dates of incapacity
• Is signed by a registered health practitioner
• Contains the practitioner's registration details
• Is the standard evidence for sick leave in Australia

Doctor's Note

"Doctor's note" is an informal term that can mean:

• A medical certificate (most common usage)
• A letter from a doctor about your health
• A recommendation or referral
• Any written communication from a doctor

What Australian Employers Accept

Under the Fair Work Act, employers can request "evidence" of illness. This is typically satisfied by:

• A medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner
• A certificate from a registered nurse practitioner
• A statutory declaration (in some circumstances)
• Evidence from a pharmacist (limited situations)

Who Can Issue Valid Certificates?

In Australia, medical certificates can be issued by:

• AHPRA-registered doctors (GPs, specialists)
• Registered nurse practitioners
• Dentists (for dental-related conditions)
• Some other registered health practitioners for specific purposes

Common Terminology Confusion

• "Sick note" — informal term for medical certificate
• "Fit note" — UK term, not commonly used in Australia
• "Med cert" — abbreviation for medical certificate
• "Doctor's certificate" — same as medical certificate
• "Statutory declaration" — sworn statement, alternative to certificate in some cases

When a Letter Is Required Instead

Sometimes employers or institutions need more than a standard certificate:

• Ongoing condition requiring workplace adjustments
• Return to work after extended absence
• Workers' compensation claims
• Disability support applications
• Immigration or visa purposes

In these cases, you may need a detailed medical letter or report from your treating doctor. This usually requires an in-person consultation.

Getting the Right Document

To ensure you get what you need:

• Ask your employer exactly what they need
• Request a "medical certificate" rather than a "note"
• Specify the dates you need covered
• Mention if you need it for a specific purpose (Centrelink, insurance, etc.)