Sick Certificates for Students: Do You Need One for School Absence?

Key Takeaways:

1. Yes, Students Often Need Sick Certificates
   While school policies may vary, many Australian schools require a medical certificate when a student misses class due to illness or injury—especially for extended absences or exams.
2. You Can Get a Certificate Online
   Students don’t need to visit a clinic for a sick note. A consultation with an AHPRA-registered doctor via Telehealth is often enough to receive an official medical certificate for school absence.
3. Telehealth is Fast, Legal, and Convenient
   Our online medical certificate service offers fast turnaround, legal documentation, and professional care—delivered directly to your inbox.

Understanding Sick Certificates for School Absences

Missing school due to illness is common among students of all ages. But when is a sick certificate required, and what does it involve?

In Australia, while minor absences (1-2 days) may not always need documentation, many schools ask for a medical certificate when students miss exams, assignments, or consecutive school days due to illness. This applies to primary, secondary, and university-level education.

Schools often follow guidelines that align with professional workplaces, particularly when students are in Year 11 or 12, or attending university.

What is a Sick Certificate?

A sick certificate, or medical certificate, is a written statement from a registered health professional declaring that a person was medically unfit to attend school or perform normal activities for a specific period.

It typically includes:

• Student’s name
• Date(s) of illness
• Confirmation of unfitness for school or activities
• Practitioner’s details and signature

Under the Fair Work Act 2009, a medical certificate is considered an acceptable form of evidence for personal or carer’s leave. Similarly, schools accept certificates for absences related to illness or injury.

When Do Students Need a Sick Certificate?

Students may need a certificate in these cases:

• Absence of 2 or more days
• Missing an assessment or exam
• Recurrent absences due to chronic illness
• Schools with strict attendance policies
• Participation in sports or excursions that require medical clearance

It’s best to check your school’s attendance policy or student handbook to confirm what’s required.

Can You Get a Sick Certificate Online?

Yes, you absolutely can. At TelehealthDr, we offer online medical certificates for students who are too unwell to visit a doctor in person.

Our AHPRA-registered doctors assess your symptoms via video consultation and, if appropriate, issue a certificate the same day. This saves time and reduces the risk of spreading illness in clinics or waiting rooms.

Telehealth certificates are valid and legally recognised across Australia—whether you’re a school student or university attendee.

How to Get a Sick Certificate with TelehealthDr

The process is simple:

1. Book a same-day telehealth consultation via our website.
2. Speak with an AHPRA-certified medical practitioner about your condition.
3. Receive your certificate by email, often within minutes.
4. Forward to your school or university as required.

This process ensures you have valid documentation without leaving your home.

When a Carer’s Leave Certificate is Needed

If a parent or guardian needs to stay home to care for a sick student, they may also require a carer’s leave medical certificate.

Under the National Employment Standards (NES), full-time and part-time employees are entitled to use their paid personal/carer’s leave to care for a family or household member.

TelehealthDr also provides these certificates online with quick and confidential consultations.

What If You Only Need One Day Off?

Even if you just need a single day medical certificate, we’ve got you covered. One-day absences can still require documentation if they involve missed exams or scheduled coursework.

Our platform allows students to:

• Request multi-day or single-day certificates
• Get documentation for past days (if still within reason)
• Access AHPRA-registered doctors 7 days a week

Are Online Medical Certificates Legal for School?

Yes. Medical certificates issued via Telehealth by AHPRA-certified practitioners are legally valid across all Australian states, including NSW.

Most schools and universities accept them provided:

• The certificate clearly states the unfit period
• It includes the doctor’s details and provider number
• It complies with standard evidence guidelines

Our certificates are designed to meet these requirements.

Why Choose TelehealthDr for Student Sick Notes?

• 100% online consultations from home
• Same-day delivery of digital certificates
• AHPRA-registered doctors you can trust
• Secure and confidential service
• Accessible from anywhere in Australia

Whether you’re preparing for exams or recovering from the flu, we make the process smooth and fast.

Final Thoughts

For students in Australia, especially in NSW, getting a sick certificate for school absence is simpler than ever. Whether you’re dealing with a one-day bug or a longer illness, TelehealthDr is here to help.

With our secure, fast, and fully digital platform, you can:

• Stay home and recover properly
• Meet school attendance requirements
• Get the support you need without delay

Book your online consultation today and have your certificate delivered in minutes.

FAQs:

Do you need a certificate for carer’s leave?
Yes, if a parent or guardian needs time off work to care for a sick student, they need a valid medical certificate.

Do you get paid for carer’s leave?
If you’re a full-time or part-time employee, yes. This is covered under your personal/carer’s leave entitlements.

How many carers leave days per year?
Full-time employees are entitled to 10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave per year. Casual employees receive 2 days of unpaid carer’s leave.

How many days carer’s leave are you entitled to?
It depends on your employment status. Casuals get 2 unpaid days per instance; others get paid days based on accrual.