Losing someone you love is an emotional and often overwhelming experience, and it can be difficult to know what steps to take in the days and weeks that follow. In Australia, there are important legal, practical, and personal matters to attend to, from confirming the death and arranging the funeral to notifying the necessary organisations and managing the person’s estate. Each situation will differ depending on where the death occurred, whether the person had a will, and any special arrangements they had in place. This guide outlines the key actions to take, including what to do if the death occurs at home, in a hospital, nursing home, or overseas, how to locate important documents, check for organ or tissue donation wishes, review guardianship responsibilities, register the death, and work with a funeral director. It also provides a checklist of who to notify, advice on paying funeral costs, guidance on administering the estate, and reminders to look after your own wellbeing during this challenging time.
What to do when someone dies?
Death at a Hospital or Nursing Home
When someone passes away in a hospital or nursing home, the staff are there to guide you through the initial steps. A doctor will confirm the death and prepare the required medical certificate, which is essential for arranging the funeral and registering the death. You may be given the opportunity to spend some time with your loved one before they are transferred, allowing you to say your goodbyes in a private and peaceful setting. The hospital or nursing home will ask which funeral director you wish to use, and if you have not yet made a decision, you can request some time to consider your options. Personal belongings, such as jewellery or clothing, will be returned to you by the staff, and it is important to ensure that everything has been collected.
Death at Home
If someone dies at home, the steps you need to take will depend on the circumstances. If the death was expected and the person was under the care of a doctor or palliative care team, you should contact them so they can confirm the death and provide the medical certificate. If the death was unexpected, you must call 000, as the police and ambulance will need to attend. Once the death has been confirmed, you can take some time with your loved one before they are transferred by the funeral director. You will need to choose a funeral director to arrange the transfer and begin planning the funeral. Personal belongings can be gathered at this stage, and you may also wish to notify close family and friends.
Death Overseas
When someone dies overseas, the process can be more complex and often involves additional paperwork and coordination between different authorities. The first step is to contact the Australian embassy, high commission, or consulate in the country where the death occurred. They can provide guidance on local procedures, help you understand the legal requirements, and assist in communicating with local authorities. You will also need to engage a local funeral director in the country where the death happened, who can work with an Australian funeral director if you wish to repatriate the body. Repatriation involves arranging for the person’s remains to be transported back to Australia, which requires specific documentation, such as a death certificate, embalming certificate, and clearance from health authorities. The costs for repatriation can be significant, so it is worth checking whether travel insurance covers these expenses. If repatriation is not chosen, you may opt for a burial or cremation overseas, in which case local laws and customs will need to be followed. Throughout the process, Australian authorities and your chosen funeral director can offer valuable assistance, ensuring the necessary arrangements are made and helping you navigate the emotional and logistical challenges during this difficult time.
Locate the person’s will and important documents
After someone passes away, one of the first practical steps is to locate their will and any other important documents. The will outlines how the person’s estate should be managed and who has been appointed as the executor. It may also include specific funeral wishes, such as whether they preferred burial or cremation, or instructions for the type of service they wanted. Important documents can include birth and marriage certificates, property deeds, insurance policies, bank account details, superannuation information, and any prepaid funeral plans. These documents may be stored at the person’s home, with their solicitor, in a safety deposit box, or sometimes with their bank. If the will cannot be found, you may need to contact their lawyer or check with the relevant state or territory’s registry of wills. Having these documents in order from the start will make it easier for the executor and family members to manage legal, financial, and funeral arrangements without unnecessary delays.
Check if the person was an organ or tissue donor
Checking if the person was an organ or tissue donor is an important step, as it needs to be confirmed and acted on quickly after death. In Australia, organ and tissue donation is a voluntary decision that people may register with the Australian Organ Donor Register or record in their driver’s licence details, depending on the state or territory. Sometimes a person’s wishes are also noted in their will, advance care plan, or shared with close family members. If you are unsure, speak with hospital staff, medical professionals, or family to confirm. Respecting the person’s decision is important, and the medical team will guide you through the process if donation is to go ahead.
Review any guardianship arrangements for dependants or pets
If the person who has died was responsible for the care of children, vulnerable adults, or pets, it is important to review any guardianship arrangements as soon as possible. In some cases, a legal guardian will have already been nominated in the person’s will or through formal legal documentation. If there is no clear arrangement, you may need to seek legal advice or involve relevant authorities to ensure the ongoing care and safety of those who are dependent on them. For pets, this may involve contacting family or friends who are willing to provide a home, or following any instructions left by the deceased. Acting promptly ensures that dependents and pets continue to receive the care and support they need during this time.
Notify family and friends of the death
Notifying family and friends of the death is an important step that should be handled with care and sensitivity. Start by contacting immediate family members and close friends directly, either in person or by phone, so they hear the news in a personal and respectful way. From there, you can reach out to extended family, work colleagues, community groups who may have had a connection with the person. In some cases, it may be helpful to ask a trusted family member or friend to assist in making these calls, especially if the list of people to contact is large.
Register the death with the relevant state or territory authority
In Australia, registering a death is a legal requirement and must be done with the relevant state or territory registry of births, deaths and marriages. This process is usually completed by the funeral director on behalf of the family, using information provided by the next of kin. In some cases, if no funeral director is involved, the responsibility may fall to a family member or another authorised person. To register the death, details such as the person’s full name, date and place of birth, parents’ names, marital status, and details about their children are required, along with a medical certificate stating the cause of death. Once the death is registered, an official death certificate can be issued. This document is essential for handling legal and financial matters, including finalising the estate, claiming insurance, and closing accounts.
Provide a certified copy of the death certificate to required parties such as doctors, coroners, banks, and government agencies
Once the death certificate has been issued, it is important to provide certified copies to the organisations and individuals that require them. These may include doctors, coroners, banks, superannuation funds, insurance companies, government agencies, and other institutions involved in managing the deceased’s affairs. Certified copies are official duplicates of the death certificate that have been verified by an authorised person such as a justice of the peace, solicitor, or police officer. Providing these copies ensures that legal, financial, and administrative matters can be processed without delays. Keeping a record of who has received a certified copy can help you stay organised and avoid unnecessary duplication.
Arrange for funeral costs to be paid
Funeral costs can be paid in several ways depending on the financial arrangements of the deceased. In some cases, funds may be available from a prepaid funeral plan, funeral bond, or insurance policy. Money may also be released from the deceased’s bank account once the bank receives a copy of the death certificate and the funeral invoice. If the deceased was a member of a superannuation fund, there may be benefits available to help cover the costs. In situations where these options are not available, family members may need to contribute or make other arrangements with the funeral director. It is important to discuss payment options early so the financial aspects are clear and managed before or shortly after the funeral service.
Organise the funeral
Organising a funeral involves making arrangements that reflect the wishes of the deceased and their family. This includes deciding on the type of service, such as a burial or cremation, and choosing a location, date, and time. You will also need to consider who will lead the service, the order of proceedings, music, readings, and any cultural or religious traditions to be observed. A funeral director can assist with these arrangements, help coordinate with cemeteries or crematoriums, and manage the necessary paperwork. Taking the time to plan the details carefully ensures the service is respectful, meaningful, and provides an opportunity for family and friends to say their farewells.
Understand the role of a funeral director
A funeral director plays an important role in helping families manage the practical and emotional aspects of arranging a funeral. They guide you through the process, explain the available options, and ensure all legal and administrative requirements are met. This includes arranging the transfer of the deceased, preparing the body for viewing, liaising with cemeteries or crematoriums, and organising the service details such as flowers, music, and transport. They can also provide advice on writing notices, preparing service booklets, and supporting cultural or religious traditions. By taking care of the logistics, a funeral director allows families to focus on grieving and remembering their loved one.
Notify the Australian Taxation Office of the death
It is important to notify the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) when someone passes away so that their tax affairs can be finalised. This can be done by the executor of the estate or the person responsible for managing the deceased’s affairs. The ATO may require a copy of the death certificate and proof of your authority to act on behalf of the deceased. Once notified, the ATO will update their records, stop issuing tax notices in the person’s name, and advise on any final tax returns that need to be lodged.
Check insurance cover for the home, vehicles, and contents
After someone has passed away, it is important to review their insurance policies for the home, vehicles, and contents. This helps ensure that the property and assets remain protected during the period before the estate is finalised. Contact the insurance providers to confirm that the cover is still in place, make any necessary updates, and notify them of the death. In some cases, the insurer may require a copy of the death certificate or proof of authority from the executor. Keeping insurance active can prevent financial loss in case of damage, theft, or accidents while the property is unoccupied or in transition.
Administer the estate
Administering the estate involves managing and distributing the assets and liabilities of the person who has died in accordance with their will or, if there is no will, according to the law. This is usually the responsibility of the executor named in the will or an administrator appointed by the court. The process may include collecting assets, paying outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries. It may also involve managing property, closing bank accounts, transferring ownership of assets, and liaising with legal and financial professionals. Administering an estate can take time and may require formal probate or letters of administration, depending on the circumstances.
Take care of your own wellbeing during the process
It is important to look after your own wellbeing during the process of handling arrangements after someone has died. Grief can be emotionally and physically exhausting, and the responsibilities involved can add extra pressure. Make sure to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough rest. Accept help from friends and family when it is offered, and consider seeking professional support through a counsellor or a support service if you need it. Remember that it is okay to take time for yourself and to grieve in your own way while managing the necessary tasks.
Who to notify when someone dies?
Family and friends
Funeral director
Australian Death Notification Service
Australian Electoral Commission
Australian Taxation Office
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (if applicable)
Banks and other financial institutions
Insurance companies (life, home, vehicle, health)
Superannuation fund
Employer (if the person was still working)
Utility providers (electricity, gas, water, internet, phone)
Local council (rates, permits, pet registrations)
Medical professionals and healthcare providers
Government agencies such as Services Australia (Centrelink, Medicare)
Legal and financial advisers (solicitor, accountant)