How to register a death in the ACT
In the ACT, the funeral director almost always handles death registration for you, lodging with Access Canberra within 7 days of the burial or cremation.
If you have just lost someone, see our first 24 hours guide first. The registration is not urgent.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and processing times change; confirm with Access Canberra before ordering.
Who lodges and when
The funeral director lodges the death registration with Access Canberra within 7 days of the disposal of remains (burial or cremation). This obligation is established by section 37 of the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1997 (ACT), which requires the funeral director or person arranging disposal to give the Registrar-General a written statement within 7 days after disposal of the remains. The Access Canberra death registration guidance confirms statements are lodged after burial or cremation. Lodgement is by email to BDMDeathsOnline@act.gov.au or in person at an Access Canberra Service Centre.
If you have chosen not to use a funeral director, the senior next of kin can register the death directly.
| Step | Who does it | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Medical certificate of cause of death | Doctor or coroner | Soon after the death |
| Lodge the registration | Funeral director (or next of kin) | Within 7 days of disposal of remains |
| Order certified copies | Online, or the funeral director | After registration is lodged |
| Certificate issued | Access Canberra | Up to 15 business days |
What documents are needed
To register a death in the ACT the registry needs:
- The medical certificate of cause of death (issued by the doctor or the coroner if the death was reportable)
- Proof of identity for the deceased
- Personal and family history details
The funeral director collects these at the first arrangements meeting.
Death certificate cost in the ACT
A standard certificate is $74.00, which includes registered post delivery within Australia. This is the 2025-26 fee published by Access Canberra as correct at 1 July 2025.
The ACT does not publish a separate priority service for death certificates. Standard processing is up to 15 business days.
Most families need 5 to 8 certified copies to settle bank accounts, super, insurance, property and government notifications.
Confirm the current fee on the Access Canberra births, deaths and marriages forms and fees page before ordering. Fees are reviewed each July.
How to order online
Certified copies of the death certificate can be ordered online through the ACT Registrar General's online services. The funeral director normally orders copies on the family's behalf as part of the funeral package.
How long it takes
Standard ACT death certificate processing is up to 15 business days (about 3 weeks) from registration.
If you need a certificate quickly (probate, overseas travel), speak with Access Canberra about the fastest available option.
What happens while you wait
Most major Australian banks will release funeral funds against the funeral director's itemised invoice and the medical certificate of cause of death, even before the formal death certificate arrives. See our guide on frozen bank accounts and paying for the funeral before probate.
The free Australian Death Notification Service lets you notify multiple institutions through a single online form once the death is registered. It does not replace certified copies, which most institutions still require.
Late registration
A late registration can still be processed by Access Canberra. Speak with the registry as soon as you realise. A penalty may apply for very late registrations.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you have to register a death in the ACT?
How much does an ACT death certificate cost?
Can I register a death online in the ACT?
Do I need a funeral director to register a death in the ACT?
What documents are needed?
What if my loved one passed away in the ACT but lived in another state?
When you are ready
This guide is general information to help Australian families, editorially reviewed by the Funerals Direct team from publicly available sources. It is not legal or financial advice. Funeral prices change and vary by provider and region, so always ask for an itemised written quote. For prepaid funerals, bonds, or insurance, consider speaking with an independent financial adviser or a free financial counsellor on 1800 007 007.
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