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Know your rights. Learn what information employers can and cannot request regarding your medical certificate in Australia.
You've submitted a medical certificate but your boss wants more detail. What are they entitled to ask? In Australia, there are clear rules about what employers can and can't request. Knowing your rights means you can push back when appropriate.
A valid Australian medical certificate only needs to include: the patient's name, the dates of unfitness, the doctor's name and registration details, and a statement that you were unfit for work. That's it. No diagnosis, no symptoms, no treatment details are required.
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Your employer can ask: for a medical certificate if your absence exceeds their policy threshold (often 2+ days), when you expect to return, and whether you have any work restrictions when returning. They can also ask if you're fit for modified duties.
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Your employer cannot demand: your specific diagnosis, details of your treatment, the name of your medication, access to your medical records, or a more detailed certificate than what's legally required. If they push for details, you can say 'the certificate provides the required information.'
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Not without your written consent. Doctors are bound by patient confidentiality and won't share information without your permission.
No. Under the Fair Work Act, it's unlawful to dismiss someone for temporary absence due to illness if they provide required documentation.
A certificate stating you were unfit for work on specific dates, signed by a registered doctor, meets legal requirements. They can't demand more.
It depends on your workplace policy. Fair Work allows employers to request 'evidence' for any period, but most only require certificates for 2+ days.
Valid, privacy-compliant medical certificates
Get a certificateThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.