Some roles require pre-employment medicals or checks before you can start—especially where safety, fitness, or site access requirements apply.
This guide explains what you might be asked to do, how to prepare, and what to expect.
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Key takeaways
- Not every job requires a medical—requirements vary by employer, site, and role type.
- Most delays happen when documents, bookings, or deadlines aren’t managed early.
- Ask what is being assessed (inherent requirements) and how results are handled.
- Prepare basics: ID, any requested documents, and follow clinic instructions.
Why do employers request medicals and checks?
Depending on the role, checks can help confirm you can safely perform inherent requirements of the job, meet site access standards, and manage safety-critical risks appropriately.
Not every job requires a medical. Requirements vary by employer, site, and role type.
Common pre-employment checks (varies by role/site)
Document checks
- Right to work in Australia (identity and work rights evidence)
- Licences and tickets relevant to the job (for example, driver licence, role-specific tickets)
- Qualification verification (where required)
Background checks (sometimes required)
- Reference checks
- Police check
- Work history verification (role dependent)
Medical and fitness checks (role dependent)
Examples that may be included:
- Health questionnaire
- Functional capacity assessment (lifting, bending, range of motion)
- Vision and hearing checks
- Musculoskeletal assessment
- Drug and alcohol screening
- Other role-specific checks (based on inherent requirements and site policies)
How the process usually works
- You’re told what’s required. You’ll usually receive instructions, booking details (or a provider), what to bring, and deadlines.
- You attend the appointment. Follow instructions carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- Results are assessed for role requirements. Outcomes vary by process. If follow-up is required, you’ll typically be contacted with next steps.
How to prepare (simple checklist)
Before the appointment
- Bring photo ID.
- Bring glasses/contact lenses if you use them.
- Bring any relevant documentation requested.
- Be honest on forms—accuracy matters.
On the day
- Sleep well and hydrate.
- Avoid heavy exercise immediately before (unless told otherwise).
- Follow any fasting or medication instructions provided by the clinic (if applicable).
What you should ask (if you’re unsure)
- Is this medical mandatory for the role or site?
- What are the inherent job requirements being assessed?
- Who receives the results and how are they handled?
- What happens if follow-up is needed?
Related reading
- If you’re new to labour hire, start here: how labour hire works (Australia, jobseekers)
Helpful context pages
- Staffing services overview
- Energy and resources (roles that may have site requirements)
FAQ
Does a medical mean the employer thinks something is wrong?
Not necessarily. Many sites use standard checks for certain role categories.
Can I be rejected based on a medical?
Outcomes depend on role requirements and the assessment process. If you have concerns, ask for clarification and consider seeking advice relevant to your situation.
Next step
Search roles and review requirements in each job ad: Programmed jobs search
General information only: this article provides general information and is not legal advice. Requirements vary by employer, role, and site.
