Guiding you through a difficult time.
When someone you love dies, there is suddenly so much to do. After losing a close friend in 2023, I saw how hard it is when nobody knows the person’s wishes or where to start. I wrote this guide so the next family has a clear path, step by step, from the first 24 hours to finalising the estate.
Why you can trust it
Just to be clear, I’m not a legal or financial expert. I’m just someone who’s been through it and wants to make things easier for others. In consultation with legal expert Greg Russo of Greg Russo Law Pty Ltd, a specialist in Wills and Estates Law in Victoria, this guide has been created to give you the clarity you need to take the next steps after a death. While this guide doesn't replace professional advice, it empowers you with key information to simplify the process. Our guide also comes with a downloadable checklist.
What you'll find in this guide
Pre-death arrangements
From Powers of Attorney to making decisions about medical care, learn how to ensure your loved one's affairs are in order.
The first 24 hours
Understand the immediate steps you need to take, including what happens with coroners, organ donation, and interim death certificates.
Funeral arrangements
Your options for funerals, memorials and ceremonies, including who can organise them, costs, payment options and bereavement leave.
Estate administration
Whether there’s a will or not, this guide will help you understand how to manage assets, debts, and finalising your loved one’s estate.
You're not alone
Along with this guide, Critical Info provides additional support through our Support page, offering connections to bereavement organisations, legal experts, and funeral service providers.
