Coronial process

Deaths are usually reported to the coroner by:

police who attend the scene
a doctor if the person dies in a hospital or clinic.

After a death is reported, police investigate to find out:

who the person was
when and where they died
how they died
any other relevant circumstances.

Steps in a coronial investigation

These are the basic steps of a coronial investigation.

Death is reported to the coroner

Police usually report the death after gathering initial information from family, friends and witnesses. For more information, read about reportable deaths.

The deceased is taken to a mortuary

If an examination or autopsy is needed, police arrange transport to the mortuary.

The coroner orders an autopsy (if needed)

An autopsy helps determine how and why the person died. The coroner considers family wishes and cultural concerns before ordering a full autopsy.

For more information read, when an autopsy is ordered.

A coroner’s grief counsellor may contact the family

They explain the process and provide support.

The deceased is released for burial or cremation

Once the medical examination is finished and the person is formally identified, the deceased is released to the funeral provider chosen by the family.

Police continue the investigation

The coroner may ask police to gather more information, such as medical records or witness statements.

The coroner can also request reports from specialists like doctors, engineers, workplace safety inspectors, mining inspectors, air safety officers, and electrical inspectors.

Police then submit an investigation brief to the coroner.

The coroner decides the next steps

After reviewing the investigation brief, the coroner may ask for more investigation. They will then decide whether to hold an inquest (a public hearing) or issue findings without an inquest. Most cases are finalised without an inquest.

Families may be consulted, and they can also request an inquest.