What to do when a death occurs August 24, 2018

When a death occurs in Australia, the immediate steps depend on whether the death was expected or unexpected. For unexpected deaths, contact emergency services (000) immediately. If the death was expected, contact the deceased’s doctor, palliative care team or Ambulance. Afterwards you should contact your Funeral Director to transfer the deceased, arrange for the necessary certificates, register the death, and make funeral arrangements.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

1. Immediate Actions:

• Unexpected Death: If the death is unexpected, contact 000 (police and ambulance) immediately.
• Expected Death: If the death was expected, contact the deceased’s doctor or palliative care team to confirm the death.
• At Home: If the death occurs at home, contact the deceased’s doctor, palliative care team or Ambulance to confirm the death. Then contact the funeral director to arrange to transfer the deceased.
• In Hospital/Aged Care: If the death occurs in a hospital or aged care facility, the staff will usually handle the necessary arrangements, including contacting the doctor.

2. After the Initial Contact:

• Medical Certificate of Cause of Death:
• Funeral Arrangements:
  • Locate the will, which may contain instructions about funeral wishes.
  • Contact your funeral director to make arrangements for burial or cremation. Your Funeral Director will organise the doctor to complete the “Medical Certificate of Cause of Death”, which is essential for further procedures.
• Register the Death:

Your funeral Director will register the death with the relevant state or territory registry of births, deaths, and marriages. A death certificate will be issued following registration.

• Notify Relevant Parties:

Inform family, friends, and other relevant organizations, such as banks, insurance companies, and government agencies.

3. Additional Considerations:

• Organ Donation: Check if the deceased was a registered organ donor.
• Financial Matters: Begin to address the deceased’s financial affairs, including locating the will and managing the estate.
• Grief Support: Seek support from grief counsellors, friends, or family members.
• Legal Advice: Consider seeking legal advice, especially regarding the will and estate.