Is a caregiver’s certificate different from a medical certificate?

Yes, a caregiver’s certificate differs from a conventional medical certificate. A medical certificate proves that you were ill and unable to work or study, but a carer’s certificate confirms that you had to care for an immediate family or household member because of illness, injury or an emergency. 

Employers in Australia may recognise a carer’s certificate as evidence of carer’s leave, depending on workplace policy. A doctor or other qualified healthcare expert can analyse the situation and give a certificate if needed. Like regular medical certifications, internet consultations and assessments may be appropriate in specific cases.

Can I get a carer’s certificate online with Hola?

Yes, if clinically appropriate. If you need to care for or support an immediate family or household member who’s unwell, injured, or affected by an unexpected emergency, Hola Health’s AHPRA-registered doctors or qualified health practitioners can assess your situation via telehealth and, where appropriate, issue a carer’s certificate.

How does it work?

1. Book a telehealth consultation or submit a request. Request any time by filling out a secure online form. Hola Health is available 24/7, including after hours and on weekends.
2. Assessment. Your practitioner reviews your request to understand: who you need to care for, their relationship to you, and what’s happened (e.g. an illness, injury, or emergency affecting them). This isn’t about diagnosing the person you’re caring for — it’s about confirming that your caring responsibilities genuinely prevented you from working or studying. Your practitioner will determine whether a carer’s certificate is appropriate.
3. Certificate issued, if appropriate. If your practitioner determines a certificate is warranted, it will be issued and sent to you securely, usually in minutes.
4. Provide it to your employer or institution. You can forward the certificate as your evidence for carer’s leave.

Which details should a carer’s certificate include?

A carer’s certificate should contain enough information to indicate that care or support was required without disclosing unnecessary private medical information. It typically indicates that the individual attending the appointment was needed to care for someone unwell or dependent.

Most certificates contain: 

• The healthcare provider’s name and contact information 
• AHPRA registration details for the practitioner
• The assessment date 
• Confirmation that care was needed 
• Recommended period for caregiving obligations 

Is it valid for work or study?

Yes. Under the Fair Work Act, employers generally recognise a carer’s certificate issued by a registered practitioner as reasonable evidence for carer’s leave. Some employers, schools, or universities may have their own specific requirements, so it’s worth checking your workplace or institution’s policy if you’re unsure.

Note: Telehealth is not suitable for medical emergencies. If you or the person you’re caring for is experiencing a medical emergency, call 000 immediately.

Get a carer’s leave certificate online with Hola Health, available 24/7.