Autopsies and Post-Mortems
What happens, explained gently.
When an autopsy is required, it adds waiting and uncertainty. Knowing what to expect can help you through it.
When an autopsy is required
- Sudden or unexpected death
- Unknown cause of death
- Death during or shortly after surgery
- Death in custody or care
- Death possibly caused by accident, violence, or poisoning
A coroner-ordered autopsy cannot be refused. A hospital-requested autopsy CAN be refused — it is your right.
What happens and how long it takes
A forensic pathologist examines the body to determine the cause of death. It typically takes 2-4 hours. The body is treated with respect. Results: preliminary in days, full toxicology in weeks to months. The body is returned to the funeral director afterwards.
The emotional impact
Waiting for results while grieving can be one of the hardest parts. Free coronial counselling is available in every state. The funeral may be delayed — this is painful but temporary.
Griefline
Call 1300 845 745 · Mon–Fri 10am–8pm AEST/AEDT
See all 27 guides in When someone dies →
From bluetulipco.com/library/after-death/autopsies-explained — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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