Your rights at work

Workplace protections

You're protected from losing your job if taking time off work because of illness if you've:

• been away less than 3 months in a row (or less than 3 months over a 12-month period)
• taken paid or unpaid leave, or a combination of both
• provided proof of your illness, such as a medical certificate.

You may not be protected if you've taken more than 3 months off work, even if you have proof of your illness.

Find out more about your rights during long periods of sick leave at the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Flexible work arrangements

If your illness is making it difficult to work, you can ask for a flexible work arrangement.

A flexible work arrangement can include:

• working part time
• working from home
• flexible work hours
• job sharing.

Find out more about flexible working arrangements at the Fair Work Ombudsman.

When a chronic illness is considered a disability

Some chronic illnesses are considered a disability under the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act. This can include temporary illnesses.

If your illness falls under this definition, your employer must make reasonable adjustments so you can keep working. This can include:

• adjustable work stations
• access to car parks, lifts and ramps
• building modifications
• flexible work hours.

Learn more about disability discrimination at the Australian Human Rights Commission.