Backdated medical certificate

A backdated medical certificate is a medical document issued in Australia that confirms a person was unable to work on an earlier date due to illness or injury.  

It is widely used to support personal leave claims when a worker couldn’t visit a doctor on the day of their absence.  

Key points on backdated certificates  

• They apply to previous dates rather than future absences. 

• Their issuance is at the discretion of the treating doctor. 

• Employers may accept such certificates under the Fair Work Act 2009. 

• There is no automatic right to receive a backdated certificate. 

Evidence for employers 

• Confirms the specific dates on which the employee is medically unfit for work. 

• It must include the date of issue and the covered absence dates. 

• The certificate should be issued by a registered Australian medical practitioner.  

• Employers may reject certificates that are unclear or incomplete. 

How to get one 

• Book an appointment with a GP or approved telehealth provider. 

• Provide correct information about symptoms and absence dates. 

• The doctor decides if it is medically appropriate to backdate the certificate. 

What’s not allowed 

• Certificates were issued without a proper medical assessment. 

• Fraudulent or self-made documents. 

• Certificates are backdated just for convenience. 

Australian workers should be aware of backdated medical certificates to prevent pay disputes or disciplinary actions. Employers must follow the Fair Work Ombudsman’s rules when checking medical evidence for past absences.  

Medical Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Hola Health does not issue backdated medical certificates online.