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Can I get a medical certificate on a weekend or public holiday?

Yes. NewDoc GPs consult seven days a week, so weekend and public-holiday certificates work exactly like weekday ones: assessed by telehealth, emailed after the consult, bulk billed for eligible Medicare patients.

Can I get a medical certificate on a weekend or public holiday?

Yes. NewDoc offers telehealth consultations seven days a week, so a certificate on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday works exactly like one on a Tuesday: you book online, a GP assesses you by video or phone, and the certificate is emailed after the consultation. Bulk billing does not change on weekends either; eligible Medicare cardholders pay $0 out of pocket whichever day they book.

How weekend certificates work

Book a telehealth appointment online as usual: appointments run seven days a week, and same-day slots are typically available. The GP assesses you by video or phone, and if a certificate is clinically appropriate it is emailed to you after the consultation, usually the same day. The certificate itself does not look different: it states the dates you are unfit for work or study, signed by an AHPRA-registered GP.

When a weekend problem needs more than a certificate

A certificate consultation is also a normal GP consultation, so if something needs treatment the GP can prescribe, refer or advise in the same call. For emergencies call 000; for free 24/7 nurse advice, 1800MEDICARE runs around the clock including public holidays.

Reviewed by Dr. Jason Yu FRACGP

Last reviewed 12 July 2026. Editorial policy

Ready to see a GP?

Book a bulk-billed telehealth consult in under 2 minutes: $0 with Medicare if eligible.

Or call 0481 615 998

Frequently asked questions

Can a weekend certificate cover today?

Yes. If the GP assesses you today, the certificate can cover today and, where clinically appropriate, the period the GP is satisfied you are or were unfit. If you need a certificate for earlier days, see our guide on backdated certificates: the rules are stricter and the GP decides what the evidence supports.

Does it cost more on a weekend or public holiday?

Not at NewDoc. Bulk billed consultations are $0 out of pocket for eligible Medicare cardholders on any day of the week. For patients without Medicare eligibility, the standard private fee applies, also unchanged on weekends.

What if I am too unwell for telehealth on a weekend?

Telehealth suits most certificate consultations, but if you have severe symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing or heavy bleeding, call 000 or go to an emergency department. For urgent but non-emergency advice at any hour, 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422) runs 24/7.

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