A step-by-step guide to help you navigate the difficult time following the loss of a loved one in Australia.
Losing someone you love is one of life’s most challenging experiences. Beyond the emotional toll, there are many practical matters to attend to when someone passes away. This guide aims to help you navigate through the process during this difficult time.
Immediate Steps (First 24-48 Hours)
- Get a medical certificate: A doctor must certify the death and issue a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death. This is required before a funeral can take place.
- Contact immediate family: Inform close family members and friends about the death.
- Contact a funeral director: They will guide you through the process of organising a funeral, including transportation of the deceased.
- Register the death: In Australia, deaths must be registered with the state or territory Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 7 days (timeframe varies by state).
Arranging the Funeral
When planning a funeral, consider the following:
- Check for pre-arrangements: The deceased may have prepaid funeral plans or specific wishes.
- Choose between burial or cremation: This decision may be guided by religious beliefs, personal preferences, or the deceased’s wishes.
- Select a venue: Consider locations such as a place of worship, funeral home, graveside, or another meaningful location.
- Plan the service: This includes selecting readings, music, eulogies, and any religious or cultural customs.
- Consider costs: Funeral costs can vary widely, from basic cremation services (around $2,000) through to more elaborate funerals exceeding $15,000. Death benefits from superannuation or insurance policies may help cover these expenses.
Funeral Cost Funding Options
- Life insurance death benefits
- Superannuation death benefits
- Prepaid funeral plans
- Funeral bonds
- Centrelink bereavement payments (eligibility depends on circumstances)
Understanding Probate
Probate is the legal process of validating a will and administering a deceased person’s estate. In Australia, it’s typically required when:
- The deceased owned real estate solely in their name
- Financial institutions holding the deceased’s assets require it
- The estate is complex or of significant value
To apply for probate:
- The executor named in the will applies to the Supreme Court in the relevant state or territory
- Submit the original will, death certificate, and appropriate forms
- Pay the filing fee (varies by state and estate value)
- The court reviews the application (typically takes 2-8 weeks) but may take longer depending on the state and complexity.
- Once granted, the executor can legally distribute assets according to the will
What If There’s No Will?
If someone dies without a valid will (intestate), the estate is distributed according to the intestacy laws of the state or territory. In this case, a family member applies for “Letters of Administration” instead of probate.
Financial and Legal Matters
After the funeral, there are several important financial and legal matters to address:
Locate Important Documents
- Will and estate planning documents
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Property deeds and mortgage information
- Insurance policies (life, health, home, etc.)
- Bank account statements and investment records
- Superannuation details and beneficiary designations
- Tax returns and financial statements
Notify Organisations
- Banks and financial institutions
- Superannuation providers
- Insurance companies
- Government agencies (Medicare, Centrelink, ATO)
- Utilities and service providers
- Landlord or mortgage provider
- Employer or pension provider
Tax obligations
The executor is responsible for managing the deceased’s tax affairs. This may include:
- Lodging a final “date of death” tax return with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
- Lodging any estate tax returns if the estate earns income during administration
- Paying any outstanding tax liabilities before distributing the estate
Insurance and Superannuation Claims
Contact all insurance providers to initiate claims on policies. In Australia, many people have life insurance through their superannuation. Steps include:
- Contact all superannuation funds the deceased held accounts with
- Provide the death certificate and required documentation
- Determine if there is life insurance within the superannuation
- Submit any claim forms for death benefits
Understanding Death Benefits from Life Insurance
Life insurance death benefits are typically paid as a lump sum to the nominated beneficiaries or to the estate. These benefits can provide crucial financial support by:
- Covering funeral and final expenses
- Paying off outstanding debts and mortgages
- Replacing lost income for dependants
- Providing for children’s education and future needs
- Creating financial security for the family
Coping with Grief
While managing practical matters, it’s essential to acknowledge and process your grief:
- Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or professional counsellors who specialise in grief support.
- Join a support group: Connecting with others experiencing similar losses can be comforting.
- Consider professional help: If grief becomes overwhelming, consider speaking with a mental health professional.
- Be patient with yourself: Grief is a process with no set timeline. Allow yourself time to heal.
Australian grief support services:
- Griefline: 1300 845 745
- Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement: 1800 642 066
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
