What to Do When a Person Dies in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dealing with the death of a loved one is an incredibly difficult time. In Australia, the process that follows a death can feel overwhelming, especially when there are legal and administrative tasks to consider. This blog provides a step-by-step guide on what to do when a person dies in Australia, helping you navigate this challenging time with clarity and support.

1. Confirm the Death

If a person passes away in a hospital, the medical staff will usually handle the necessary paperwork and inform the family. However, if the death occurs at home or in a non-medical setting, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare professional or the police to confirm the death. If the person was under palliative care, the healthcare provider will guide you through the process.

2. Contact Next of Kin or Executors

Once the death is confirmed, notify the deceased's next of kin or the individual named as the executor in their will. The executor will be responsible for managing the deceased's estate, including arranging the funeral and handling legal matters.

3. Arrange for the Body

Depending on where the death occurred, you may need to contact a funeral home or a coroner. If the death was sudden or unexplained, the police may involve a coroner to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. After confirmation, the family can decide on the disposition of the body (cremation or burial) and any bespoke arrangements.

4. Obtain a Death Certificate

A death certificate is an official document that provides proof of a person's death. To obtain this certificate in Australia, you need to apply through the relevant state or territory registry office. You'll typically need to provide a completed application form, identification, and payment for the service. The death certificate will be necessary for various legal and financial matters, such as claiming life insurance or closing bank accounts.

5. Make Funeral Arrangements

Funeral arrangements can be overwhelming, but it’s an essential step in honoring the deceased. Discuss your wishes and budget with family members, and engage a funeral director who can guide you through the process. You’ll need to decide on:

• The type of service (traditional, memorial, etc.)

• Burial or cremation preferences

• Location and timing of the service

• Personal touches, such as music, readings, or tributes

Ensure that any specific requests from the deceased are honored if they expressed their wishes before passing.

6. Notify Relevant Authorities and Organizations

Following the death, you’ll need to inform several organizations, including:

• Banks and Financial Institutions: Notify any banking institutions where the deceased held accounts to prevent fraudulent activity.

• Government Agencies: Inform Services Australia (Centrelink) if the deceased was receiving any government benefits.

• Insurance Companies: Notify any life insurance providers as beneficiaries will need to claim benefits.

• Superannuation Funds: If the deceased had superannuation, contact the provider to initiate any claim processes.

7. Manage the Estate

Once the funeral has taken place, the executor will need to manage the deceased’s estate, including:

• Identifying and valuing assets

• Paying any debts, taxes, or outstanding bills

• Distributing the remaining assets according to the will If the deceased did not leave a will, the estate will be managed according to the laws of intestacy in the relevant state or territory.

8. Seek Support and Guidance

During this difficult time, don’t hesitate to seek support, whether from family, friends, or professional services. Grief can be overwhelming, and organizations such as Beyond Blue and Lifeline offer resources, support groups, and counseling services to help you navigate your emotions and find comfort.

Conclusion

Dealing with the death of a loved one in Australia can be challenging, but breaking the process down into manageable steps can help ease the burden. From confirming the death to managing the estate, each task plays a crucial role in honoring the deceased and supporting those left behind. Remember, it’s essential to lean on family and professional support during this time to navigate your grief successfully. Take care of yourself and those around you as you move through this process, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed.