How long does it take to get a death certificate in Australia, and how many copies are needed?

Typically deaths are registered with the state's registry of births, deaths, and marriages by the funeral director after burial or cremation has occurred. It can then take two to six weeks for the original death certificate to arrive. In some states, there can be a simple death certificate that records that the person has passed away and a cause of death certificate that records the duration of last illness and cause of death. For a probate application or an application for letters of administration, you will usually need the cause of death certificate. Once you receive the original death certificate, you may need multiple certified copies to produce to each institution where there are assets held. Certified copies can be arranged by taking the original and a number of photocopies to an authorised witness such as a justice of the peace or a lawyer. Running out of certified copies may mean that you are delayed in finalising the administration of the estate.