Coronial inquests

A death may be reported to the coroner in the following circumstances:

• when the death was unexpected
• where the death was violent or unnatural, for example, as a result of a homicide or suicide
• where the death resulted from an accident or injury
• where the death occurred during or following a health- related procedure
• if the person had not been attended by a doctor in the last six months
• when the person cannot be identified
• if the death happened while the person was in custody of a law enforcement authority
• if the person was receiving care from a mental health facility.

The State Coroner has a duty to investigate and determine a cause of death for reportable deaths which happen in NSW. For more information, see NSW Coroners Court.

The coronial investigation period can delay the process of arranging a funeral. If there is a coronial investigation, the hospital has a responsibility to store the deceased's body in a morgue until the coroner issues an order for burial.

The body may be released for burial or cremation once an investigation is completed, and a cause of death is determined, or it may be released before the coronial inquest is complete. Once the body is released, the executor or next of kin make funeral arrangements.