How to register the death of a loved one

Find out how to register the death of a loved one and how to get a death certificate.

After a loved one dies, there are often many organisations to tell. Some places, including government agencies, ask for proof that a person has died. This is usually a death certificate.

Applying for a death certificate

Registering a death and applying for a death certificate can be a daunting task. You may like to ask a trusted family member, friend or GP to help you with this process. If you engage a funeral director, they may apply for the certificate on your behalf.

If you don’t have a funeral director, or they can’t do this for you, you’ll need to register the death. You need to do this with the births, deaths and marriages registry in the state or territory where the person died.

Find out more on your state or territory website. These links will take you away from myGov.

State or territory Resource
ACT Death registration
NSW Death certificates
NT Register a death
Qld Applying for a death certificate
SA Apply for a death certificate
Tas Apply for a death certificate
Vic Get a death certificate
WA Apply for a death certificate

Page last updated: 29 April 2024