Who to Notify When Someone Dies
When you're in the middle of grief, the practical side of things can feel overwhelming. This checklist breaks down who needs to be contacted after a death, so you can work through it at your own pace and not worry about missing something important.
There's no need to do it all at once. Take it one step at a time.
Government Departments
Start here. These are the key government contacts to notify early:
Australia Post, to arrange mail redirection
Medicare: 132 011
Australian Tax Office: 132 861
Australian Electoral Commission: 132 326
Local Council, particularly if your loved one owned property
Depending on their circumstances, you may also need to contact:
Department of Veterans' Affairs: 1800 838 372, for pension or benefit recipients
Centrelink: 132 300, if payments were made or received
Department of Transport, for driver's licence and vehicle registration
Child Support Services: 131 272, if payments were made or received
Financial and Legal
Banks, building societies and loan providers
Superannuation funds
Private health insurer
Insurance companies
Accountant
Solicitor or public trustee
Pre-paid funeral provider or funeral bond provider
Work and Professional
Employer
Any company directorships or board memberships
Home and Health Services
Utility providers: phone, electricity, gas
Landlord or real estate agent
GP, dentist, specialists, hospital and pharmacy
Home nursing or care services
Home delivery services
Rental companies for appliances or medical aids
Education
If your loved one was enrolled in study, held alumni membership, or had a connection to a school, TAFE or university, contact the relevant institution.
What Matters Most
You don't need to work through this list in a day. Notifications can happen over days or even weeks, and most organisations are understanding when they learn of a bereavement.
If you're unsure about any of these steps, our team is happy to help guide you through what needs to happen and when.