How to register a death in Queensland
In Queensland, the funeral director almost always handles death registration for you, lodging with the Queensland Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 14 days of receiving the cause of death certificate from the doctor.
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 QLD BDM before ordering.
Who lodges and when
The person arranging disposal of the remains (almost always the funeral director) must lodge the cause of death certificate with QLD BDM within 14 days of receiving the certificate from the doctor. This is the trigger under section 94(8) of the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 2023 (Qld), which replaced the 2003 Act from 24 June 2024. The 14 days runs from receipt of the medical certificate, not from the date of death itself. In practice the doctor must provide the certificate within 2 working days of the death (s94(4)), so the funeral director is typically filing within days of the death. The QLD BDM guidance confirms "the death needs to be registered within 14 days."
You can lodge through any of these channels:
- By post to PO Box 15188, City East QLD 4002
- In person at any Queensland Magistrates Court or QGAP office (except the Brisbane Magistrates Court)
- In person at the Brisbane registry customer service centre, Level 32, 180 Ann Street, Brisbane
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Cause of death certificate | Doctor | Within 2 working days of the death (s94(4)) |
| Lodge the registration | Funeral director (or next of kin) | Within 14 days of receiving the certificate |
| Order certified copies | Funeral director or family | After registration is lodged |
| Certificate issued | QLD BDM | Up to 10 business days (2 with urgent service) |
What documents are needed
To register a death in Queensland 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 Queensland
Standard certified copy: $58.10 (current as at 1 July 2026). Urgent service (2 business days): additional $34.45.
Most families need 5 to 8 certified copies to settle bank accounts, super, insurance, property and government notifications.
State fees are reviewed periodically. Confirm the current fee on the QLD death registration page before ordering.
How long it takes
Standard processing for a QLD death certificate is up to 10 business days (about 2 weeks) from when the registry receives the application. Urgent service shortens this to 2 business days for an additional $34.45.
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 QLD BDM. 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 Queensland?
How much does a Queensland death certificate cost?
Can I register a death online in Queensland?
Do I need a funeral director to register a death in Queensland?
What documents are needed?
What if my loved one passed away in Queensland 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.
Ready to find a funeral director?
Compare directors who list the right experience, read reviews from other families, and request a quote. Always free for families.
Find a funeral director in QueenslandWas this guide helpful?
