Coroner
What does a coroner do?
Coroners investigate deaths that are unexpected, unexplained, violent, or occur in custody or care. Their role is to determine the identity of the deceased, the cause of death, and the circumstances in which the death occurred. Coroners may conduct inquests, review evidence, hear expert testimony, and make findings or recommendations aimed at improving public safety and preventing future deaths.
A coroner career sits within the legal and judicial system and involves working closely with police, forensic specialists, medical practitioners, legal professionals, and government agencies. Coroners operate independently and must apply the law impartially.
Is a career as a coroner right for me?
A career as a coroner may suit you if you are interested in law, justice, and public interest decision making. Skills and attributes important for this role include:
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The capacity to lead through effective decision-making, accountability, and support for others.
The ability to take initiative, demonstrate personal drive, and maintain a professional attitude.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
How to become a coroner
If you are exploring how to become a coroner, pathways vary by state and territory in Australia. Coroners are typically legally qualified and appointed through the court system. Many coroners are practising or former lawyers, magistrates, or judges.
A coroner degree is usually a law degree, followed by admission as a legal practitioner. Significant legal experience is generally required before appointment. Some jurisdictions may also appoint coroners with medical qualifications, depending on legislative requirements.
Every journey to study is individual, and pathways into coronial roles depend on jurisdictional legislation, professional experience, and appointment processes. A common path to becoming a coroner:
- Complete a bachelor degree in law.
- Gain admission as an Australian legal practitioner.
- Build extensive legal experience, often as a solicitor, barrister or government lawyer.
- Progress into judicial or magistrate positions through professional experience and appointment.
- Be appointed as a coroner in accordance with the requirements of your state or territory.
How long does it take to become a coroner?
In Australia, becoming a coroner is usually a long-term career path that takes around 10 years or more. This is because coroners are typically experienced legal professionals who are appointed to the role, rather than entering it directly after university. Many coroners begin by completing a Bachelor of Laws (around 3-4 years), gaining admission as a legal practitioner, and then building substantial experience as a lawyer, magistrate, or judge before being appointed as a coroner.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a career in law and the justice system with a UniSQ law degree and develop the analytical, research and decision-making skills needed for judicial roles.
Responsibilities and work settings
Investigating reportable, unexpected or unexplained deaths.
Conducting coronial inquests and hearings.
Examining evidence, medical reports and witness statements.
Determining the identity of deceased persons and circumstances of death.
Working with police, forensic experts and medical professionals.
Preparing findings and coronial reports.
Making recommendations to improve public health and safety.
Communicating findings to courts, families and relevant agencies.
Courts, tribunals and justice agencies
Government agencies, departments and councils
Public hospitals and health services
Community health organisations
Universities and higher education providers
Research institutes and research centres
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Coroner FAQs
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