How to Get a Medical Certificate Online in Australia

Getting a medical certificate online in Australia is straightforward, legitimate, and accepted by employers nationwide. If you're unwell and can't make it to a clinic, a telehealth consultation with an AHPRA-registered doctor can assess your condition and provide a valid certificate — usually within an hour.

Key Takeaways

• Online medical certificates are legally valid and accepted by Australian employers
• You'll consult with an AHPRA-registered doctor who assesses your condition
• Most certificates are issued within an hour and delivered digitally

How Online Medical Certificates Work

Online medical certificates follow the same process as in-person consultations — just without the waiting room. A registered doctor reviews your symptoms, asks relevant questions, and makes a clinical decision about whether you're fit for work. If appropriate, they issue a certificate that meets all the same legal requirements as one from your local GP.

The certificate states you're unfit for work due to a medical condition. It doesn't need to — and won't — disclose your specific diagnosis. Your health information remains private.

The Process: Step by Step

• Complete a brief health questionnaire describing your symptoms
• Provide basic details like your name, date of birth, and employer (if required)
• An AHPRA-registered doctor reviews your information
• The doctor assesses whether a certificate is clinically appropriate
• If approved, your certificate is sent to you digitally (email or SMS)
• Download, print, or forward to your employer as needed

What Conditions Qualify?

Online medical certificates are appropriate for many common conditions that don't require physical examination. These include cold and flu symptoms, gastroenteritis, migraines, back pain, mental health days, period pain, and recovery from minor illness. If your condition needs hands-on assessment, a good telehealth service will tell you.

How InstantMed Helps

InstantMed connects you with AHPRA-registered Australian doctors who can assess your condition and issue medical certificates when clinically appropriate. The process is simple: complete a brief questionnaire, and a doctor reviews your request — usually within an hour during business hours.

When to See a Doctor In Person

• You have severe or worsening symptoms
• You need a physical examination (ear infections, chest sounds, lumps)
• Your condition requires urgent attention
• You've been unwell for an extended period without improvement
• The telehealth doctor recommends in-person care