Statutory declaration

A statutory declaration is a formal statement of facts made under the relevant legal process. Fair Work lists statutory declarations alongside medical certificates as examples of evidence that may support sick or carer's leave. It is the declarant's statement, not a doctor's clinical opinion. Fair Work guidance on notice and medical evidence

Check the correct form and process

Commonwealth and state or territory processes can differ. Use the relevant official guidance for the declaration you need, including witnessing or digital requirements. Do not assume any signed note is a statutory declaration or that one jurisdiction's form suits every purpose. Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department: Statutory declarations

Ask the recipient what evidence is required and whether a statutory declaration will address it. In employment, evidence should satisfy a reasonable person of the relevant circumstances. The suitability of a particular document depends on the request and facts. Fair Work guidance on notice and medical evidence

Be precise and truthful

State what you personally know and make dates clear. Do not present a self-reported illness as though a clinician examined you when that did not happen. If you refer to another document, describe it accurately rather than changing its meaning.

A statutory declaration does not diagnose an illness, establish a treatment plan or replace medical assessment when you need care. Choosing an evidence format should not delay help for worsening or serious symptoms.

When a medical certificate may be different

A doctor can provide a supported clinical opinion after an appropriate assessment. The doctor decides what they can certify and may decline a request if there is not enough information. A statutory declaration and a medical certificate therefore answer different kinds of evidentiary questions. Health Professional Councils Authority NSW: Medical certificates: what you should know

Read Doccio's work certificate guide if a clinical assessment is needed. If your only question is whether a particular workplace accepts a declaration, start with the employer's process and current Fair Work guidance. Avoid paying for a consultation on the assumption that every absence legally requires a doctor's certificate; clarify the actual requirement first.