Employee rights
Can an employer refuse an online medical certificate?
In almost every case: no. A genuine medical certificate signed by an AHPRA-registered Australian doctor is valid evidence under the Fair Work Act — whether the consultation was in person or by telehealth.
What the Fair Work Act actually requires
Section 107 of the Fair Work Act 2009 says an employee must give evidence that "would satisfy a reasonable person" of the reason for their absence. A certificate from a registered medical practitioner satisfies that test. The Act does not require an in-person consult and does not specify a format.
The narrow exceptions
An employer may reasonably question a certificate only if it: is not from a registered practitioner, is unsigned or undated, has obvious signs of tampering, or covers a period of leave the employee wasn't actually absent for. The correct response is to verify the certificate — not to reject it outright.
What to do if your employer refuses
- Ask them to verify the certificate at medibyte.com.au/verify.
- Refer them to the Fair Work Ombudsman's page on personal leave evidence.
- If pay is withheld or you face adverse action, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94.
Get a valid certificate in hours
Signed by an AHPRA-registered Australian doctor. From $10.
Request a certificateFAQs
Can my employer refuse an online medical certificate?
Only if the certificate is not from a registered practitioner or is clearly fraudulent. A genuine certificate from an AHPRA-registered doctor — including a telehealth certificate — is valid evidence under the Fair Work Act and must be accepted.
What if my employer says telehealth 'doesn't count'?
That is incorrect. The Fair Work Act does not distinguish between in-person and telehealth consultations. Refer your employer to the Fair Work Ombudsman's guidance on evidence for personal/carer's leave.
How can my employer check my certificate is real?
Medibyte certificates include a unique verification code. Employers enter the code and the employee's date of birth at medibyte.com.au/verify to confirm authenticity in seconds.