What to Do When Someone Dies in Aged Care | A Guide for Australian Families
When a loved one passes away in aged care, it can be a confronting and emotional experience — even if the death was expected. Whether they were in a nursing home, assisted living, or residential aged care facility, knowing what steps to take can help you navigate this sensitive time with clarity and compassion.
At eziFunerals, we support Australian families through every stage of end-of-life planning. This guide outlines exactly what to do when someone dies in aged care, including legal steps, funeral arrangements, and how to get help when you need it most.
Step 1: Medical Staff Will Confirm the Death
If your loved one dies in a residential aged care facility:
- A nurse or medical professional will confirm the death
- The facility will contact the attending doctor or on-call GP to certify the cause of death
- A Medical Certificate of Cause of Death will be issued — this is not the same as the official death certificate
The aged care provider will usually contact the next of kin or nominated representative to inform them of the passing.
Step 2: Locate the Funeral Plan or Will
Check if the deceased had:
- A prepaid funeral plan
- A documented funeral plan or wishes
- A Funeral Bond or insurance policy
- A legally appointed Funeral Guardian
- A Will naming an executor who will oversee funeral and estate matters
If no plan exists, the next of kin will typically be responsible for making funeral arrangements.
Step 3: Choose a Funeral Director (or Not)
While aged care staff may recommend a funeral provider, you’re not obligated to use them.
Use eziFunerals to:
- Compare local funeral directors
- Review services, prices, and reviews
- Request transparent, no-obligation quotes
- Choose a provider that aligns with your values and budget
You can also organise a direct cremation or plan the funeral independently.
Step 4: Arrange Transport of the Deceased
Once a funeral provider is selected, they will arrange respectful transfer from the aged care facility to:
- Their mortuary or care facility
- A hospital (if referred to the coroner, which may happen in unexpected or unaccompanied deaths)
- The crematorium or cemetery, when applicable
Staff at the aged care home will coordinate logistics with the funeral director.
Step 5: Register the Death
The funeral director will submit the necessary paperwork to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state or territory.
You will then receive an official death certificate, which is needed to:
- Finalise the deceased’s estate
- Close accounts and notify banks
- Claim superannuation or insurance
- Apply for government support payments
Step 6: Notify Government Departments & Services
You may need to inform:
- Centrelink and Services Australia
- Medicare
- The Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
- Aged care services and home care package providers
- Banks, super funds, insurers and utility providers
The Australian Death Notification Service allows you to notify multiple organisations at once.
Step 7: Plan the Funeral or Memorial
Consider:
- Cremation vs burial
- Religious or cultural preferences
- Type of service: traditional, memorial, direct cremation, or celebration of life
- Venue: chapel, church, crematorium, home, or outdoor location
- Flowers, music, readings, and personal touches
- Inviting family and aged care staff (many residents build strong bonds with carers)
eziFunerals provides tools to help you plan a personalised and meaningful farewell.
Can the Aged Care Facility Help?
Yes. Aged care staff are typically experienced in end-of-life care and can:
- Support you emotionally and practically
- Secure any personal belongings or valuables
- Arrange a final viewing or private goodbye
- Provide contact details for the doctor and coroner (if involved)
- Refer you to grief and bereavement services if needed
Always ask for a copy of any internal care documentation that may assist with funeral planning or estate matters.
What About Funeral Costs?
Funeral costs vary depending on the type of service and provider:
| Service Type | Average Cost (AUD) |
| Direct cremation | $1,800 – $3,500 |
| Cremation with service | $4,000 – $7,000 |
| Burial with service | $6,000 – $15,000+ |
If your loved one was a pensioner, DVA recipient, or on low income, you may be eligible for:
- Centrelink Bereavement Payments
- State-based funeral assistance
- Veterans’ funeral benefits
- Funeral insurance claim payouts
Learn more: Funeral Assistance & Help
Why eziFunerals?
We are Australia’s most trusted independent funeral planning platform, offering:
- Transparent quotes from local funeral directors
- Support with funeral planning after aged care deaths
- Free tools, checklists, and guides
- No commissions, pressure, or sales gimmicks
- Access to trusted providers across all states and regions
We help you honour your loved one’s life, your way — respectfully and affordably.
Need Support After a Death in Aged Care?
We’re here for you — with compassion, clarity, and guidance.
- Get a funeral quote
- Plan the service online
- Or call 1300 236 402 for personal assistance
eziFunerals — Supporting Australian families after death in aged care.