Personal Leave in Australia: Your Rights and How Pharmacists Can Help

How Personal Leave Works in Australia

• Full-time and part-time employees generally accrue 10 days of paid personal leave per year under the National Employment Standards (NES).

• Casual employees usually do not receive paid personal leave.

• Personal leave can be used when:

  • You’re unwell or injured and unable to work.

  • You need to care for an immediate family or household member who is unwell.

Online sick certificate available - Your Health Ally

How Personal Leave Works in Australia

• Full-time and part-time employees generally accrue 10 days of paid personal leave per year under the National Employment Standards (NES).

• Casual employees usually do not receive paid personal leave.

• Personal leave can be used when:

  • You’re unwell or injured and unable to work.

  • You need to care for an immediate family or household member who is unwell.

Providing Evidence for Personal Leave

Employers may ask for documentation to confirm that your absence is genuine. Acceptable forms of evidence include:

• A sick certificate from a doctor or other registered health professional.

• In some cases, a pharmacist-issued Absence from Work Certificate—available for minor ailments within the pharmacist’s professional scope.

Medical Certificate vs. Pharmacist Absence from Work Certificate

	Medical Certificate	Pharmacist Absence from Work Certificate
Who issues it	Doctor or other authorised health practitioner	Registered pharmacist
Suitable for	Most health conditions, including serious or ongoing issues	Minor ailments or short absences (typically 1–2 days)
Coverage	Broader range of medical issues	Limited to conditions within pharmacist scope
Not suitable for	N/A	Serious illness, pregnancy-related issues, or compassionate leave

How a Pharmacist Can Support You During Personal Leave

Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals in Australia. They can offer timely advice and practical support to help you recover and return to work safely.

1. Minor Ailments

Pharmacists can assess and provide advice for:

• Colds, flu, hay fever, mild stomach upset, or headaches

• Minor skin rashes or allergic reactions

They can also issue an Absence from Work Certificate for short-term minor illnesses when appropriate.

2. Mental Health and Wellbeing Support

• Guidance on managing stress, mild anxiety, or poor sleep

• Referrals to GPs, psychologists, or mental health professionals when necessary

• In some cases, pharmacists may issue a short-term certificate related to wellbeing

Pharmacists cannot diagnose or treat serious mental health conditions but can play a valuable support and referral role.

3. Medication and Safety Guidance

Pharmacists can help you use your medicines safely by:

• Checking for interactions or allergies

• Advising on the safe use of over-the-counter medicines while unwell

• Suggesting products that support recovery

💡 Practical Tips for Taking Personal Leave

• Notify your employer early if you’re unable to attend work.

• Provide documentation promptly if requested.-->

• Follow your pharmacist’s or doctor’s advice for a quicker recovery.

Online Sick Certificates in Australia | Your Health Ally

Need time off work but can’t get to a doctor? With Your Health Ally, you can get an online sick certificate from a registered pharmacist—quickly, securely, and conveniently, anywhere in Australia. Apply for an online absence from work certificate or a quick consult here --> www.yourhealthally.com.au

⚠️ Disclaimer

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance specific to your health and workplace situation.