Death and autopsies

Our Forensic Pathology and Forensic Toxicology teams work closely with the State Coroner, other coroners and coronial staff,  and Police to provide coronial services in Queensland.

We are supported by mortuary and administration teams, coronial family services teams, and other teams who provide specialised services such as histology, forensic odontology, neuropathology, and radiology.  We also play a role in disaster victim identification. We can provide advice on mortuary practices and propose amendments to medico-legal legislation.

Information for funeral directors

The Authority to Collect Deceased Form (DOCX 70 kB) has been developed to ensure there is no dispute as to who is authorised to collect a deceased person from the mortuary at Coopers Plains.

The form will be used where a Cause of Death Certificate (Form 9) has been issued for the deceased, and there are no legal requirements for the deceased to be retained or transferred under coronial direction.

Should the funeral director request assistance from another company, the form enables a transfer company to be nominated.

To complete the form, please print, complete and sign, and bring to the mortuary at 39 Kessels Road Coopers Plains. Both Part A and Part B must be completed for the form to be accepted by mortuary staff.

NOTE: At present, use of the form is limited to the mortuary at Coopers Plains.