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Access to Documents

When a coroner investigates a death or fire the court gathers a range of documents. At the end of the investigation the coroner writes a finding. A finding details the identity of the person who has died, the cause of the death or fire, in certain situations the circumstances of the death or fire, and any comments or recommendations that may help prevent similar deaths.

A number of findings are now available in the Case Findings section.

However, the individual documents in the court file are not generally available to the public. If you wish to see any of these documents, you can apply to the court for access.

What type of documents does the court have?

A court file can contain many different documents. This will depend on how complex the investigation is. Documents can include:

• police reports
• witness statements
• photographs
• expert reports
• medical examination reports
• the coroner's finding.

Who can apply for access?

Generally, you need to be an 'interested party' in an investigation to gain access to documents. To become an interested party, you must write to the court and explain your interest in the case, and list the documents you want.

The 'senior next of kin' is usually included as an interested party. Unless the coroner decides otherwise, all interested parties receive a copy of the brief of evidence prepared for an inquest. The senior next of kin also receives any medical reports.

A coroner may also release documents to:

• a statutory body for a statutory function
• a member of the police force for law enforcement
• researchers, for research approved by an ethics committee
• anyone who can satisfy the coroner that it is in public interest.

How do I apply for access to documents?

If you are not the senior next of kin or an interested party recognised by the court, you can apply by completing our Application for Access to Coronial Documents or Inquest Transcript (form 45). To receive a copy contact us on 1300 309 519 or download a copy from the menu on the right.

Complete and return the form to us: 

Coroners Court of Victoria
436 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne 3000

Fax: (03) 8688 0703
Email: coronerscourt.records@coronerscourt.vic.gov.au

We will let you know in writing if the coroner grants your application.

Who decides whether to approve my application?

If the investigation was completed after 1 June 1986 a coroner will decide whether to approve the application.

The coroner may impose conditions on the release of a document. A penalty may apply if you break these conditions.

If the investigation was completed before 1 June 1986 contact the Public Records Office of Victoria on (03) 9348 5656.

Can my application be refused?

Yes. A coroner may refuse an application, for example if a criminal prosecution is in progress, or if the person who has applied does not have sufficient interest.

How long will it take to receive the documents?

This varies depending on how recent the matter is. We may also contact the senior next of kin first to let them know we have received a request for information and ask if they have any concerns. The coroner will consider these concerns before deciding whether to release the documents.

Are there any fees?

You may have to pay for copies of documents. The court may waive or reduce these charges if it is appropriate.

Standard fees are:

• no more than $1.00 per page for black and white copy
• no more than $2.00 per page for a colour copy.

Write to, or contact the court on 1300 309 519 if you would like to have the fees waived or reduced.