Who can issue a Certificate of Capacity?

A certificate of capacity can only be issued by a treating doctor or specialist who is managing your injury. This includes your general practitioner, treating specialist, or a Workers’ Comp Doctor experienced in managing workplace injuries.

How long is a Certificate of Capacity valid for in NSW?

In most cases, a certificate of capacity in NSW is valid for 28 days. However, the duration may be shorter or longer depending on your condition and the recommendations of your treating practitioner.

Do I need a new Certificate of Capacity every 28 days?

Yes. To continue receiving support and weekly payments, you usually need an updated WorkCover certificate of capacity every 28 days. This ensures your employer and insurer have up-to-date information about your current work capacity and recovery progress.

What’s the difference between a Certificate of Capacity and a standard medical certificate?

A certificate of capacity vs medical certificate is a common point of confusion. A standard medical certificate (for sick leave, flu, etc.) only confirms time off work, while a workers’ compensation certificate of capacity provides detailed information about the injured worker’s diagnosis, functional impact, work restrictions, and recovery expectations. It is specifically designed for workers’ compensation claims.

How does a Certificate of Capacity Support Your Claim?

Your Certificate of Capacity is a key part of the claims process. Insurers use it to determine your eligibility for workers compensation benefits, guide your treatment plan, and assist with your return-to-work arrangements. A well-prepared certificate ensures everyone involved in your recovery has a clear understanding of your condition and work capacity, helping to prevent delays in your claim.

Can my GP or treating specialist complete the Certificate of Capacity?

Yes. Your certificate of capacity is valid if your doctor is the treating practitioner for your injury. A treating specialist, such as an orthopaedic surgeon or physiotherapist, can also complete the form when appropriate.

How do I book an appointment to get a Certificate of Capacity?

You can book directly with AusRehab. We make it easy to schedule an appointment with a Workers’ Comp Doctor to obtain your work capacity certificate. Simply call us, email, or use our online booking link.

Is the SIRA Certificate of Capacity available as a PDF form?

Yes. The official SIRA certificate of capacity is available online as a downloadable PDF form. Treating practitioners must complete this form when certifying your capacity for work under NSW workers’ compensation.

What is the first certificate of capacity, and when is it required?

The first certificate of capacity is required when you initially lodge a workers’ compensation claim in NSW. It outlines your diagnosis, work capacity, and any restrictions caused by your injury or illness, helping to initiate the claim process and guide your recovery plan. This certificate must be issued by the worker’s nominated treating doctor.

Can a Certificate of Capacity/Certificate of Fitness be issued for non-work-related injuries?

Yes. For CTP claims, a ‘certificate of fitness’ also known as ‘certificate of fitness for work.’ This certificate must be completed regardless of whether the person was employed at the time of the accident.

What is a Certificate of Fitness, and how is it different from a Certificate of Capacity?

A Certificate of Fitness applies to CTP claims following a motor vehicle accident. It sets out the person’s injuries and confirms the reasonable and necessary treatment they need. A Certificate of Capacity, by contrast, is used in workers compensation claims. It describes the injuries, indicates whether the person is fit for work, and details the treatment required.

Does WorkCover NSW require a specific Certificate of Capacity form?

Yes. For NSW claims, only the official WorkCover certificate of capacity form approved by SIRA is accepted. This standard form ensures insurers, employers, and doctors all work with consistent information.

Need a WorkCover Certificate of Capacity in NSW?

Issued by Approved Doctors in 24–48 Hours. Bulk-billed with an active claim. Zero hassle.

You’re one step away from keeping your WorkCover claim active. We connect you with trusted, WorkCover-approved doctors who complete your Certificate of Capacity — fast, correctly, and with zero out-of-pocket cost (if you have an active claim).

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How It Works

Let’s secure your WorkCover Certificate of Capacity in just three simple steps. Takes <2 Minutes to Book!

WorkCover doctor assessing injury and issuing certificate of capacity

Step 1: Book Your Appointment

Fill out our quick online form or call us directly. We’ll match you with a WorkCover-approved doctor near you or via telehealth if eligible.

Appointments available in 24-48 hours, sometimes same-day.

Worker reviewing recovery plan after receiving certificate of capacity

Step 2: Attend Your Consultation

You’ll speak with a WorkCover-authorised doctor who is familiar with the system. They’ll assess your injury, your work capacity, and recommend suitable duties where needed.

Whether it’s your first certificate, an update, or a renewal, we’ve got you covered.

Step 3: Get Your Certificate & Recovery Plan

Your completed Certificate of Capacity (SIRA form) is sent to you, your employer, and your insurer. We handle the communication, so you don’t have to.

Plus, you’ll get guidance on return-to-work planning and next steps.

What We Do (And Why It Matters)

You need someone who understands WorkCover, offers fast appointments, completes forms accurately, and keeps things stress-free. Here’s what makes us different:

First, Ongoing, or Updated Certificates

Every 28 days or when your condition changes

We Handle the Paperwork

And coordinate with your employer and insurer to keep your claim running smoothly

Fast Access Across NSW

No waiting weeks for a GP who doesn’t understand WorkCover

No Upfront Costs

With an active WorkCover claim

If you’re unsure or don’t have a claim number yet, we’ll guide you through the next steps.

What You’ll Get With Your Appointment

Every appointment includes everything you need to keep your claim moving. You’ll receive:

Official NSW Certificate of Capacity (SIRA-approved)
Completed by a WorkCover-authorised doctor
Diagnosis, capacity to work, and any restrictions
Guidance on suitable duties and return-to-work plan
Coordination with your employer and insurer
Appointments in 24-48 hours
Bulk-billed with active claim (no upfront payment)

Do You Need a Rehab Provider?

We can help you arrange physiotherapy, medical treatment, mental health support, home assistance, return-to-work plan, and everything else you need, all at no cost to you, because you’re covered under workers’ compensation scheme.

What Is a Certificate of Capacity?

A certificate of capacity (also known as a work capacity certificate or workers’ compensation certificate of capacity) is a medical document completed by a treating doctor in the context of a NSW workers’ compensation claim. It outlines an injured worker’s current capacity to work, the nature and extent of their injury, and any functional limitations they may have.

In NSW, a certificate of capacity is required for:

Lodging a workers’ compensation claim
Ongoing assessment of work readiness
Determining appropriate duties for a safe return to work

This document summarises:

Diagnosis of the injury or condition
Current work capacity
Any functional restrictions
Estimated recovery timeline

We're always ready to answer your questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast can I get an appointment?

At AusRehab, we understand that time is critical when managing a workplace injury. You can typically get an appointment for your certificate of capacity within 24-48 hours. Our team works closely with WorkCover-approved doctors to ensure your documentation is completed quickly and accurately so your workers’ compensation claim isn’t delayed.

Who can issue this certificate?

Only WorkCover-approved doctors or treating practitioners can issue a certificate of capacity in NSW. This includes your GP, treating specialist, or a Workers’ Comp Doctor familiar with the SIRA certificate of capacity process.

Is it different from a normal medical certificate?

Yes. A workers’ compensation certificate of capacity is different from a standard medical certificate. It uses the official SIRA form for WorkCover and provides detailed information about your work capacity, restrictions, and recovery plan, not just a note for time off work.

Do I need a new certificate every 28 days?

Usually, yes. Under NSW WorkCover guidelines, you’ll need an updated WorkCover certificate of capacity every 28 days during your recovery. This keeps your insurer informed and ensures your weekly payments and return-to-work planning continue smoothly.

How much does it cost?

If you have an active workers’ compensation claim, your certificate of capacity appointment is typically bulk-billed, meaning there’s no out-of-pocket cost to you. AusRehab directly coordinates with your insurer to process the claim.

Can you help if I don’t have a claim number yet?

Absolutely. If you’ve been injured but haven’t received your claim number yet, AusRehab can still assist. Our team will guide you through the initial steps of the workers’ compensation process, including arranging your first certificate of capacity so your claim can be lodged correctly.

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Book Your Certificate Appointment Now

Need a Certificate of Capacity today? Contact AusRehab to schedule your appointment with a Workers’ Comp Doctor. We’re here to guide your recovery journey and help you navigate your workers’ compensation claim with ease.

Let AusRehab support you by providing documentation that is accurate, timely, and professionally managed.

We’ll call you within 2 business hours. 100% confidential.