How to register a death in Tasmania
Tasmania's death registration is governed by the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1999 (Tas). Two statutory notices feed into the registration: the medical practitioner's notification of cause of death within 48 hours of the death, and the funeral director's written statement within 7 days after disposal of remains.
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 TAS BDM before ordering.
Who lodges and when
Under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1999 (Tas):
- The medical practitioner must notify the Registrar within 48 hours of the death and provide a Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (s35).
- The funeral director must lodge a written statement with TAS BDM within 7 days after disposal of remains (burial or cremation) (s37).
Once the Registrar has both notices, the death is registered. The Act does not impose a separate fixed deadline on the registration step itself.
| Step | Who does it | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Notify cause of death | Medical practitioner | Within 48 hours of the death (s35) |
| Lodge written statement | Funeral director | Within 7 days after disposal of remains (s37) |
| Death registered | TAS BDM | Once both notices are received |
| Certificate issued | TAS BDM | Broadly 2 to 3 weeks (24 hours with priority) |
Online lodgement
Tasmanian funeral directors lodge death registrations through the eDeaths portal, accessed from the TAS BDM register a death page. The portal is funeral-director facing and requires registered credentials; if you are arranging a DIY funeral, the senior next of kin can register the death directly with TAS BDM by post or in person.
What documents are needed
To register a death in Tasmania the registry needs:
- The medical certificate of cause of death (issued within 48 hours by the doctor, or by 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 Tasmania
Standard certified copy: $60.76 (current as at 1 July 2026). Priority service (24 hours): additional $43.12.
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 TAS BDM fees page before ordering.
How long it takes
TAS BDM standard processing is broadly 2 to 3 weeks from registration. Priority service shortens this to 24 hours for an additional fee.
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 TAS 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 Tasmania?
How much does a Tasmanian death certificate cost?
Can I register a death online in Tasmania?
Do I need a funeral director to register a death in Tasmania?
What documents are needed?
What if my loved one passed away in Tasmania 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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