A death certificate is an official document issued by the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) that confirms the death of an individual. This document is required for several legal and administrative purposes, including settling the deceased person’s estate, closing bank accounts, and applying for insurance benefits. If someone has passed away in NSW, their death must be registered, and a death certificate can then be obtained. This article explains the process of obtaining a death certificate in NSW, including who can apply, how to apply, and the necessary documents required.

Who Can Apply for a Death Certificate?

The NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages restricts who can apply for a death certificate to protect the privacy of individuals and their families. The following individuals are typically eligible to apply for a death certificate:

• A spouse or partner of the deceased
• The next of kin (parents, children, or siblings)
• The executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate
• A person with written permission from the next of kin or the executor
• Solicitors or other legal representatives acting on behalf of the family or estate

In some cases, third parties may apply, but they must provide proof of authorization from the next of kin or the executor of the estate.

Registration of Death

Before a death certificate can be issued, the death must be officially registered with the NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages. Typically, the funeral director managing the deceased person’s burial or cremation handles the registration process by submitting the required documents to the NSW BDM. The documents include a Death Registration Statement, which contains details about the deceased, and a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death, completed by the attending doctor.

Once the death is registered, the death certificate can be applied for. In NSW, a death must be registered within seven days of the burial or cremation.

How to Apply for a Death Certificate

You can apply for a death certificate in NSW either online, by mail, or in person. Below are the steps for each method:

1. Apply Online

The online application process is the easiest and most convenient method. Here’s how to do it:

• Visit the NSW Births, Deaths, and Marriages website.
• Navigate to the Death Certificate Application page.
• Complete the online form with the required details, including information about the deceased and the applicant.
• Upload any necessary identity documents to verify your eligibility (such as a driver’s license or passport).
• Pay the applicable fee online using a credit or debit card.

Once the application is submitted, the processing time is typically between 5 and 10 business days, after which the certificate will be mailed to the applicant.

2. Apply by Mail

If you prefer to apply by mail, follow these steps:

• Download and print the Death Certificate Application Form from the NSW BDM website.
• Fill in the form with the required details about the deceased and the applicant.
• Attach certified copies of your identity documents (such as a passport, driver’s license, or Medicare card). These documents must be certified by an authorized person, such as a Justice of the Peace (JP) or a notary public.
• Include the required fee as a cheque or money order.
• Mail the completed form, documents, and payment to the NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages at the address provided on the form.

Processing times for mail applications may take longer, especially if there are postal delays.

3. Apply in Person

You can also apply for a death certificate in person by visiting a Service NSW center or the NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages office. Here’s how:

• Bring the completed application form along with the required identity documents.
• Submit the form and documents at a Service NSW center or the BDM office.
• Pay the application fee using a card or other accepted payment method.

Processing for in-person applications generally follows the same timeline as online applications, but it ensures immediate submission of documents.

Identity Documents Required

When applying for a death certificate, you must provide proof of your identity. The following documents are typically required:

• Primary ID: Passport, driver’s license, or proof of age card.
• Secondary ID: Medicare card, utility bill, or bank statement.

If applying by mail, these documents must be certified by a recognized official.

Processing Time and Fees

The processing time for death certificates in NSW usually ranges from 5 to 10 business days for online and in-person applications. Mail applications may take longer. The fees for a standard death certificate vary depending on the type of certificate requested, with expedited services available for an additional fee.