Mark Coulton (Parkes, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

When a close family member or friend passes away, it can be a very distressing time. It is very common for people to be unsure about what needs to be done or what processes are necessary. An unexpected death can be particularly difficult to deal with. The Department of Human Services has a lot of useful information about the services available in the sad situation when a family member dies. These services include the Australian Funeral Directors Association and information on who to notify, on removing a person from mailing lists and on closing social media accounts. Financial assistance is available through Human Services, including the bereavement payment. There are also links to other social support services that are available to help with the grieving process.

A constituent of mine in Dubbo is particularly concerned about the nature of funeral insurance. I met with Cindy Neilsen in my office last week, and I raise these issues on her behalf. Cindy is a passionate community member who regularly holds a soapbox session in Victoria Park in Dubbo. I thank Cindy for coming to meet with me. I would encourage residents to visit the Human Services website, www.humanservices.gov.au, for more information about the assistance that is available for residents in times of bereavement.

See this speech in context