Aussie Childcare Network Forum

Posted: **Mon Aug 28, 2017 2:19 pm**

Im starting a new job next week as an assistant educator and today i went in to sign my contract. I was taken aback by some of the conditions of the centre. One
of the conditions was that if you rang in sick that you had to have a medical certificate otherwise you don't get paid even one day off. Even if im away caring for my
children im suppose to have a medical certificate for my children. I haven't worked in child care for 3 years and thought the standard was that if you had two days or more then you are required a medical certificate.

What happens at other centres?

Posted: **Mon Aug 28, 2017 3:58 pm**

I think that would be depend on the centres..

Posted: **Sat Sep 26, 2026 2:21 am**

That does sound a bit strict compared to what most centres usually ask for. Under the Children’s Services Award, the general expectation is that you provide a medical certificate if you’re away for two days or more, but some centres set their own policies and require one for any sick day.

It’s not uncommon for services to tighten up on this, especially if they’ve had issues with staff absences, but it can feel pretty harsh when you’re just genuinely unwell or caring for your kids. If it worries you, it’s worth clarifying with management whether that’s a hard rule or if they’ll accept other evidence (like a pharmacy receipt or statutory declaration). At the end of the day, they can set stricter conditions, but you’re right, the standard across the industry is usually two days before a certificate is required.

,
Lorina

Aussie Childcare Network Forum

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