Community pharmacists are authorised to issue Absence from Work Certificates for individuals as proof of legitimate absence from work. Note that these certificates cannot be provided for absences related to pregnancy or compassionate leave.

Absence from work certificates can be provided by your pharmacist to verify:

  • Absences from work due to illness or injury (personal leave)
  • Absences due to illness or injury to a member of the employee’s immediate family or household (carer’s leave)

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Pharmacist's discretion

Absence from Work Certificates are issued at the discretion of pharmacists at pharmacies offering this service. Pharmacists can only issue certificates for conditions within their scope of practice, such as minor ailments. If your illness or injury is beyond a pharmacist’s ability to assess, they will refer you to a doctor or other relevant healthcare professional.

Important considerations

  • Certificates can only be issued for short periods of leave and cannot be backdated.
  • You may be asked for a form of identification (ID).
  • If you need a certificate for carer’s leave, the person who is ill must be present.

In-store consultations

Consultations for an Absence from Work Certificate are conducted in-store by an experienced pharmacist and can vary in length. It is recommended to call your local pharmacy to check if an appointment is needed. Fees apply for this service and vary between pharmacies.


Find a pharmacy near you offering absence from work certificates.

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