MHFFTas welcomes the comprehensive nature of the Review of the Coroners Act 1995 (Tas) Issues Paper and acknowledges the significant attention given to the experiences of families, friends and others affected by a reportable death. The Issues Paper recognises that coronial processes can have both positive and negative impacts on bereaved families and specifically seeks feedback regarding communication, support, information sharing and family experiences of the coronial system. It appropriately acknowledges that the coronial system serves an important public interest function while also helping families understand how and why a person died.

MHFFTas supports the review’s focus on improving how the coronial system interacts with families and friends. However, there are several areas where the discussion could be further strengthened through a family and friend lived experience lens. MHFFTas has consistently advocated that families and friends are a distinct lived experience cohort with their own needs, perspectives, expertise and support requirements.

This submission is informed by a lived-experience case study provided by a bereaved Tasmanian mother and her family following the death of their daughter in 2026.

Read the full submission here