How to register a death in Victoria
In Victoria, the funeral director almost always handles death registration for you, lodging directly with Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria 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 BDM Victoria before ordering.
Who lodges and when
Under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1996 (Vic), the funeral director must notify BDM Victoria of the death within 7 days after disposal of the remains (burial or cremation). BDM Victoria's guidance for funeral directors states: "As a funeral director, you must notify the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 7 days of a disposal of a deceased person's remains." The current version of the Act (version 044, effective 9 September 2025) is published at legislation.vic.gov.au.
If you have chosen not to use a funeral director, the senior next of kin can register the death directly with BDM Victoria.
| 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 burial or cremation |
| Order certified copies | Via Service Victoria, or the funeral director | After registration is lodged |
| Certificate issued | BDM Victoria | Typically 2 to 3 weeks |
What documents are needed
To register a death in Victoria 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 Victoria
Standard certified copy: $59.10 (effective 1 July 2026).
Victoria does not publish a standalone priority or express processing service for the certificate itself; express post for delivery is available for an additional fee.
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 BDM Victoria fees page before ordering.
How to order online
Certified copies of the death certificate are ordered online through Service Victoria. You will need a Service Victoria account to lodge the order. The funeral director can also order copies on the family's behalf as part of the funeral package.
How long it takes
Standard processing typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from registration. Service Victoria does not publish a guaranteed turnaround; the actual time depends on application volume.
If you need a certificate quickly (probate, overseas travel), the funeral director or BDM Victoria can advise on the fastest 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 BDM Victoria. 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 Victoria?
How much does a Victorian death certificate cost?
Can I register a death online in Victoria?
Do I need a funeral director to register a death in Victoria?
What documents are needed?
What if my loved one passed away in Victoria 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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