Official Partner of Cricket Australia
Medically reviewed by Dr Nelson Lau
MBBS FRACGP, General Practitioner, 30+ Years of Experience
Updated in September 2026
Yes, when it comes to using one for work — an online medical certificate issued by an AHPRA-registered practitioner is legally valid and recognised the same way as one from an in-person visit. Here’s what makes it valid:
Online doctor’s certificates or medical certificates must be issued by health practitioners registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). This ensures the health practitioners meet Australian medical standards and are legally allowed to practise.
If the health practitioner is registered with AHPRA, the certificate carries the same professional weight as one issued in person.
A legitimate online certificate is only issued after a proper medical assessment. This usually involves a questionnaire, phone call, or video consultation.
Doctors and health practitioners are required to assess your symptoms carefully before deciding if time off work is appropriate.
Most Australian employers accept online medical certificates. They’re recognised under Fair Work guidelines, as long as the certificate is genuine and issued by a registered Australian doctor or health practitioner.
Tip: Some workplaces may have internal policies, so it’s always worth checking with HR.
Online medical services in Australia ensure the following:
Yes, as long as it’s issued by an AHPRA-registered practitioner in Australia, after a real assessment. Under the Fair Work Act 2009, a genuine online certificate has the same legal standing as one from a clinic. It is generally recognised the same way by employers, schools, and universities.
Yes, as valid evidence for work, when issued following a genuine assessment by an AHPRA-registered practitioner. Here’s what makes it valid:
| Factors | Answer |
| Issued by AHPRA-registered health practitioners? | Yes – Hola Health only works with experienced AHPRA-registered doctors and nurse practitioners in Australia. Every medical certificate issued by Hola Health has the practitioner’s AHPRA registration number. |
| Is there a proper medical assessment? | Yes – For a 1-day medical certificate, there is a questionnaire to assess your symptoms. However, for a 2-day medical certificate or more, a video consult with a doctor is required. This way, the health practitioners and GPs online can assess and guide you in your situation. |
| Is it accepted at work? | Yes, generally accepted at work – Under Fair Work guidelines, a Hola Health medical certificate is accepted and is legitimate evidence. |
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Note: Online medical certificates are suitable for short-term work absences. If symptoms are severe, ongoing, or worsening, you should see a GP in person or seek urgent care if needed.