Repatriation

If someone dies in a different Australian state, a funeral director in the state of death can arrange transport to the home state. The body is usually transported by air in an approved container (the funeral director will advise on requirements). It is expensive, and the cost depends on the distance — ask for an itemised quote. Travel insurance sometimes covers this — check the policy.

Contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate first. DFAT's Consular Emergency Centre is available 24/7 on 1300 555 135 (within Australia) or +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas). They can help with: local death registration, morgue arrangements, coordinating with a local funeral director, and the paperwork needed for international transport.

Travel insurance is critical here — international repatriation of remains is very expensive, and without cover the cost falls on the family.

If a person dies in Australia and the family wants them buried in another country, an Australian funeral director arranges the embalming, documentation, and air transport. You'll need: Australian death certificate, embalming certificate, consular clearance from the destination country, and an airline-approved transport container (the funeral director will advise on requirements).

Some faiths require burial within 24 hours (Islam, Judaism), which creates urgency. Embassies and consulates are generally aware of these requirements and can sometimes expedite processes. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, repatriation to Country may involve specific cultural protocols — ask for an Indigenous liaison officer.