Reliable information can make difficult practical decisions a little clearer. Use this guide as a starting point, and confirm details with the relevant professionals and official bodies.
Inside this guide
The first call depends on where and how a death happened
A hospital or aged-care service can explain the immediate processes where a death occurs in its care. At home, circumstances differ depending on whether the death was expected and whether medical certification can be arranged. Unexpected or suspicious circumstances may require emergency or police assistance. Follow directions from medical or relevant authorities rather than relying only on a general checklist.
Find the wishes and responsible people
Once immediate care is being managed, contact close family or trusted friends and locate any written funeral wishes, prepaid arrangements, key insurance documents and information about an executor. Be careful about authority: being related to someone does not automatically grant access to every account. Do not feel obliged to settle non-urgent decisions immediately.
Engage and compare a funeral director if needed
A funeral director can help explain care, transfers, ceremony options and administrative steps. A formal funeral is not necessarily compulsory, but organising matters independently can involve considerable responsibilities. Ask a director to explain the process, any applicable postcode fees and the complete written quote before entering a contract.
Death registration and documentation
A death generally needs to be registered, and the official death certificate is issued through the relevant registry process. A funeral director commonly helps with registration, but timeframes and procedures vary. Keep important documents securely. Official certificates can be necessary for estates, banks, insurers and other administrative tasks.
Notify relevant services and institutions
Depending on circumstances, tasks can include Services Australia notifications, superannuation providers, banks, insurers, a landlord, utility providers, employers and the person managing the estate. Keep a record of notifications and reference numbers. Some institutions have distinct rules for what documents they need; verify directly rather than forwarding sensitive information to an unrelated directory.
Care for your family and avoid pressure
Loss can make unfamiliar financial and administrative decisions more difficult. Share practical tasks with trusted people, take notes, save quotes and ask for support. NSW Government and community resources offer information about bereavement and practical matters. Seek qualified professional help for contested estates, unusual legal circumstances or coronial matters.
Frequently asked questions
Who should I contact first?
The answer depends on the location and circumstances of death; follow medical, facility or emergency instructions.
How do I obtain a death certificate?
Refer to the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages for the official process.
Does a funeral director handle registration?
They commonly assist, although different processes may apply when no director is used.
Original sources
NSW Government first steps ↗Services Australia after a death ↗Editorial information reviewed October 2026. General guidance only — obtain specific legal, financial or professional advice where needed.
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