About the Coroners Court of Queensland

The Coroners Court of Queensland (CCQ) is part of Queensland Courts.

What does the Coroners Court of Queensland do?

The CCQ investigates approximately 6,000 deaths each year. When someone reports a death, the court investigates to find out:

  • who the deceased person is
  • how, when, and where they died
  • the cause of death.

What is a reportable death?

Under the Coroners Act 2003, coroners investigate reportable deaths in Queensland. Certain deaths, like those in custody, require an inquest. Inquests focus on understanding what happened and make recommendations to prevent similar deaths. They do not assign blame.

How the Coroners Court of Queensland can help you

CCQ provides information about:

  • what deaths must be reported, and who must report them
  • what happens at inquests, who attends, and how to request one
  • the steps in a coronial investigation
  • how to get a copy of a death certificate
  • the role of witnesses in inquests
  • what coroners must find, what they can and can’t do, and how to dispute findings.
  • recommendations made after inquests to prevent future deaths
  • types of autopsies and what to do if you have concerns about:
    • tissue and organ donation
    • sperm retrieval
    • body release for funerals
    • autopsy reports.

Learn more about the Coroners Court of Queensland.