It seems that we have culturally accepted that it is okay to claim a sick day in order to get a long weekend. According to The Australian it is expected that a huge number of Australians will take a "sick day" today.

500,000 workers tipped to take today off in biggest sickie
January 25, 2010, The Australian

"Australians will take the biggest and most expensive sick day today, with half a million workers expected to ditch their job in favour of a four-day long weekend.

With Australia Day preparations in full swing, employees are fleeing work in droves ahead of tomorrow's public holiday, with the cost to the national economy predicted to be more than $250 million.

According to analysis by absence-management firm Direct Health Solutions, an additional 33 per cent, or 500,000 employees, will not be at work today compared with a normal Monday, the biggest ever gross number not to show up to work.

The lost labour will result in a $257m economic blow to Australian businesses.

Direct Health Solutions managing director Paul Dundon said the number of "sickies" expected today was "shocking".

"It will obviously put tremendous pressure on businesses and we would urge all employees to do the right thing," Mr Dundon said.

The estimated number of absent workers was based on data collected two weeks before and after Australia Day last year...."

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What do you believe this says about our culture? How ethical is it to take a sick day in order to get a long weekend? Have your say on our forum.