ADVICE & SUPPORT

Death notification and funeral advice

At Harts Family Funerals, we understand how difficult it is when someone close to you dies. This is especially challenging if you are responsible for organising their funeral and notifying friends, family and authorities of their passing.

Read through our advice below for some information on the formalities and call our Rockhampton team at any time for personal assistance.

Who should I notify when someone dies?

You will need to let a GP know immediately after a death occurs. Then contact your chosen funeral director. It's your choice when to tell other family members and friends, but you will also need to notify certain organisations including:

  • The executor nominated by the deceased
  • Centrelink
  • Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Superannuation & insurance companies
  • Solicitor or public trustee
  • Employer/former employer
  • Accountant
  • Financial institutions & lenders
  • Australian Tax Office
  • Australian Electoral Office
  • Medicare
  • Post office
  • Council
  • Hospital/aged care facilities
  • Department of Transport & Main Roads
  • Utility companies

When should I schedule the funeral?

Allow enough travel time for friends and family to travel from interstate or overseas, so they are able to attend the funeral service. In some cases, the death may be referred to the Coroner. We will liaise with officials on your behalf and advise you when the funeral can proceed.

What should I expect at my first meeting with a funeral director?

Your initial meeting with Tony, Harts Family Funerals' director, will take between 1 and 2 hours. We understand you may be feeling emotional and shocked, but you don't have to make all the necessary decisions on your first visit. At this meeting we generally cover:

  • Legal aspects & documentation
  • Proposed time & date of the service (depending on the circumstances of death, this may be referred to the Coroner)
  • Estimated costs
  • Ideas to personalise the service & alternatives to keep the cost low if that is a concern

What should I bring to my meeting with the funeral director?

For your first meeting with our funeral director we recommend you bring support—either a friend or family member. You should also bring:


  • The death certificate
  • An outfit for the departed—favourite suit, perfume, make-up
  • Funeral bond, pre-planned funeral or life insurance documentation
  • Credit or debit card

Where can I scatter the ashes?

Choosing the right place to scatter ashes is important and shouldn't be rushed into. Scattering ashes in your yard may seem like a good idea, but circumstances change. You could move out and have no or limited access to any memorial you've built.



Laws and regulations vary from state to state, but in Queensland, you may scatter ashes on land or water without requiring a permit. However, if you plan to scatter ashes on privately held land—and you are not the owner—we recommend you get written permission to do so.

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