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Self-care
Everyone's grief is unique. When you lose someone dear to you, it's easy to forget to look after yourself. We can assist you.
We're here to support you on this difficult journey
There will be a number of things to organise after losing a loved one. You may have to speak with many people and provide a lot of information. Remember that we are here to support you through this process.
Things to think about in the first week
Immediate support payments
We have immediate support packages available to offer you financial assistance and support while you wait for your claim to be processed. We're here to assist and support you where possible throughout this difficult time.
Work-related death claim
When a loved one dies in a workplace, you may be eligible to claim for a number of payments and benefits.
Funeral entitlements help
There are a number of things you may be entitled to have covered when organising a funeral.
People that may contact you
It is normal to feel overwhelmed by the many people that may contact you. If you need, you may like to ask a friend or family member to be with you throughout these conversations.
The following people may contact you. To assist, here is an explanation of each role so you can understand why each contact is important.
- notifies the person's closest living relative or relatives (next of kin)
- reports the death to the Coroner
- arranges for you, a family member or close friend to identify your family member
- starts an investigation to establish if any crimes were committed
- manages the investigation if your family member died in a motor vehicle accident
- works with WorkSafe and Victoria Police to investigate your loved one's death
- determines the cause of death
- notifies the senior next of kin about the nature of the incident
- provides support and information on their processes
- notifies you where your loved one will be taken
- facilitates the formal registration of death
- WorkSafe works closely with police to investigate most work-related deaths. They need to find out if occupational health and safety (OHS) laws were broken.
Information about WorkSafe investigations - If your loved one died in a motor vehicle accident or of natural causes, WorkSafe may not become involved.
- Sometimes there will be a number of different investigations occurring at the same time. All relevant agencies will maintain contact with you.
- WorkSafe can organise for a bereavement support worker to assist you with emotional and practical supports.
- WorkSafe works closely with police to investigate most work-related deaths. They need to find out if occupational health and safety (OHS) laws were broken.
- Agents are engaged by WorkSafe to work with you in relation to your claim.
- Your agent is the person who you can contact to discuss any part of your claim. If you need extra support, you should reach out to your agent to discuss how they can better support you.
- may offer to support you and your family
- may offer support to the workmates of your family member
- will provide information to Victoria Police, WorkSafe investigators and your WorkSafe agent
- provides the senior next of kin with an official death certificate within several weeks
- in some cases, provides an interim death certificate upon request
The WorkSafe agent may engage an external legal firm to help assess initial liability, and may:
- contact you or your legal representative to collect financial and medical information required to assess your claim
- provide assistance to understand the claim process and, where applicable, the legal process.
Sometimes there will be a number of different investigation occurring at the same time. All relevant agencies will maintain contact with you.
Organising a funeral
One of the first things that needs to be organised is the funeral. It can feel overwhelming to prepare for a ceremony that best represents your loved one. You may also worry about the cost.
Choosing a funeral director
It is up to you and your family to decide which funeral director to use. You may know of a reputable company from a friend or relative or you can search on the internet of local funeral directors.
The funeral director may ask for a deposit before the funeral, with the balance to be paid on an agreed date. Make sure you check these terms and conditions before you commit to them.
There are several websites that give you information about planning a funeral. The funeral director will also give you options about the funeral. This includes the service, music, flowers, and considerations for the eulogy.
Costs of the burial or cremation
If eligible, the reasonable costs of your loved one’s burial or cremation, up to a maximum amount, will be paid by the WorkSafe agent. Speak with your agent to discuss your eligibility and how to apply for this payment.
If you’re not eligible
If you’re not eligible and are concerned about your ability to pay for expenses, you can explore the following options:
- Your loved one may have provided for funeral costs in their will.
- Centrelink may provide a bereavement benefit to eligible person(s).
- Returned service personnel may be entitled to an official war grave through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- Some health funds provide a funeral benefit.
- Your loved one may have been a member of a trade union or other club or association which may provide a funeral benefit.
Centrelink bereavement line: 132 300
Commonwealth Department of Veterans’ Affairs: 1800 555 254
We understand that this is an emotional time for you and your family
To help support you, we've created a checklist of people and organisations you may need to contact in the first days and weeks.
Taking care of yourself
When navigating difficult times, often looking after yourself can be put to one side. It is important to give yourself the time and space to get through each day by allowing yourself time to breathe and letting family members support you.
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