Woke up sick and need proof for work — but the last thing you want to do is drag yourself to a clinic? With an online medical certificate, an AHPRA-registered Australian GP can assess you by phone or video and issue a valid certificate digitally, often within hours.
Here's everything you need to know: what types of certificates exist, what they cost, whether your employer has to accept them, and how to get one online the same day.
Need a medical certificate today? Speak to an AHPRA-registered GP online — valid digital certificates from $15.
Get a Medical Certificate (From $15)Is an Online Medical Certificate Legally Valid?
Yes. A medical certificate issued by an AHPRA-registered doctor after a telehealth consultation is just as valid as one from a walk-in clinic. Under the Fair Work Act 2009, an employee can take paid sick leave if they're unfit for work, and a certificate from a registered medical practitioner is the standard form of evidence.
Employers can reasonably request evidence for sick leave — but they can't demand a certificate from a specific type of clinic or dismiss one simply because the consultation happened online. Digital certificates issued after a genuine consultation are accepted Australia-wide.
Issued by an AHPRA-registered GP after a genuine consultation.
Digital certificate sent by SMS or email, usually within hours.
From $15 flat — you know the cost before you book.
No waiting rooms, no travel, no sitting in a clinic while sick.
Types of Medical Certificates You Can Get Online
How to Get a Medical Certificate Online in 3 Steps
- Book online: Choose the medical certificate service and briefly describe your symptoms (book now).
- Speak to a GP: A phone or video consultation with an AHPRA-registered doctor who assesses your condition — the certificate can only be issued after a genuine consultation.
- Receive your certificate: A valid digital certificate is sent to your phone or email, usually the same day. Forward it to your employer or upload it to your university portal.
What If You're Sick for More Than Two Days?
Longer absences are covered too — a telehealth GP can issue certificates covering consecutive days where clinically appropriate. For multi-day absences, see our guide to the 2-day medical certificate, and if you're caring for an unwell child or family member, you may need a carer's leave certificate instead of a standard sick certificate.
When a Certificate Can Be Refused
A doctor can only issue a certificate if the consultation supports it — that's what makes online certificates legitimate. You may be asked basic questions about your symptoms; if the GP can't establish you're unfit for work or study, they won't issue one, and no fee applies to a certificate that isn't issued.
Telehealth is for non-urgent care. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms
- Heavy bleeding, fainting or seizure
- Any other medical emergency
Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Common questions about getting a medical certificate online in Australia.
Can employers refuse an online medical certificate?
Generally no. A certificate issued by an AHPRA-registered doctor after a genuine consultation is valid evidence under the Fair Work Act, regardless of whether the consultation happened in person or by phone or video.
How much does an online medical certificate cost?
From $15 at NewTeleDoc Medical, with transparent pricing shown before you book. GP consultations start from $49 if your illness needs more than a certificate.
How fast can I get one?
Most consultations and certificates are completed the same day — often within hours of booking. The certificate is delivered digitally by SMS or email.
Can students use an online certificate?
Yes — universities and TAFEs across Australia accept digital certificates for missed exams, assignments and placements. See our dedicated guide to student medical certificates online.
Can I get a Centrelink medical certificate online?
Yes — telehealth GPs can issue medical certificates for Centrelink requirements. See our guide on Centrelink medical certificates for the specifics.
Get Your Medical Certificate Today
Skip the clinic queue. An AHPRA-registered GP can assess you online and issue a valid digital certificate — from $15, same day.
Get a Medical Certificate (From $15)