Does my X employer HAVE to provide a certificate of employment?

[Nicambhar]

My X employer and I left on good terms but he doesn't do references. I worked for him for 2.5yrs as office manager and would want the back up of it on my resume' as it is worth more $'s to me in a job - not that I am returning to work this year, but I am redoing my resume' and will be studying again towards the end of this year.
So I have called the office and he is busy but spoke with the receptionist about it and she said she will talk with him about it.
My ? I s'pose is, is it compulsory for him to provide me with one?

[HotI]

do you want a written reference (ie how good you are), or just something that says you worked there? The HR person should beable to supply you with a document detailing the time you worked there. Written references are rarely called for these days- employers prefer to call and talk to your referees and get verbal reference, and then they can ask the specific questions they are after.

[Nicambhar]

I agree Kate, a written ref means diddly these days... I just really want something that says my position and the dates I worked there.
Lets just hope he isn't a bigger a$$ than I thought he was and gives me one.

[Sopdet]

HR are supposed to give you one. You could tell a furfie and say you're going for a loan and need a statement of employment.

[Peg]

definately should be able to get a record of employment from HR. You can even get a 'separation certificate' from centerlink and give it to payroll and they can fill it out. It basically states the period of employment and reasons for leaving.

[Nai]

Yes, they do need to provide a certificate of employment. All it needs to be is confirmation of the dates you worked there and in what capacity.