When a Death Occurs

If a death occurs at home in Queensland, the first point of contact should be the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) or the person’s palliative care nurse (if they were receiving care). The attending paramedic or registered nurse will assess the situation and may issue a Life Extinct Form if the death is not considered reportable to the Coroner.

If the death is reportable, the matter will be referred to the Coroner and you will be advised of the next steps.

If the death occurs in a hospital or aged care facility, staff will manage the necessary clinical and legal processes.

Once the appropriate documentation has been completed and the death is not a coronial matter, a licensed funeral director can be contacted to arrange the transfer of your loved one into their care and begin discussing funeral arrangements. They will guide you through the required paperwork and planning process.

How to Decide on Funeral Services

Funeral services often offer many of the same amenities, but they still have many differences. When you start your search for a funeral director, pay attention to certain qualities or services they offer.

Death From Natural Causes

If a death occurs at home in Queensland, the first person to contact is the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) or the person’s palliative care nurse (if applicable). The attending paramedic or registered nurse will assess the situation and, if appropriate, issue a Life Extinct Form when the death is not reportable to the Coroner.

Once the death has been formally certified and is not a coronial matter, you should contact your chosen funeral director. They will arrange the transfer of your loved one into their care and guide you through the funeral planning and arrangement process, including the required paperwork and services.

Death From Other Causes

Deaths due to non-natural causes, such as accidents or foul play, must be reported to the police. They will investigate the death and report it to the coroner. There is no need to contact the coroner yourself if it is too difficult. A funeral director will liaise with the coroner’s department for you.