Body Donor Program

Anatomical examination is where a body or parts of a body, such as organs, are cut apart to allow a person to look at the inside of the body or body part. Anatomical examination may take place as part of research, education, or training for health professionals. Our Body Donor Program complies with the NSW Anatomy Act (1977) and the Human Tissue Act (2003).

Any person 18 years or older, preferably someone expected to survive you, may act as your witness. The signature of one witness is required on the Donor Consent Form to confirm your intention to donate.

Under the NSW Anatomy Act (1977) and the Human Tissue Act (2003), the University is legally allowed to retain your body for teaching and research purposes for four (4) years. The University may apply to the Anatomy Inspector (NSW Department of Health) for an extension of the retention period up to a maximum of a further four (4) years. The University may apply for the extension of the retention period to maximise the use of such a valuable donation. The University will cremate of your body at a time no longer than eight (8) years (4 + 4 extension) from your date of death. You are encouraged to inform your family as to the length of the donation period.

After your death and only when your donation meets all screening requirements and is officially accepted into the Body Donor Program, the University will cover all expenses in relation to mortuary transportation and cremation. If the University is unable to accept your donation for any reason, your next-of-kin / executor will be responsible for all funeral costs.

Yes. Registration with the Body Donor Program is no guarantee you will be accepted at time of death. The suitability of a donor for the Program can only be determined at time of death, and the circumstances or condition of your body at that time may preclude you being accepted into the Program. We strongly recommend that donors ensure they have alternative funeral arrangements in place and that they discuss this fully with their next of kin.

When you die, your surviving partner, Senior Next of Kin, Power of Attorney, or medical staff member should notify the Body Donor Program Coordinator as soon as possible by calling 02 9852 5095.  It is important these people have been provided with copies of your Body Donor Program consent documentation.

No. NSW state law requires a licensed mortuary service to conduct all body transportations. All donors are transported in a professional and ethical manner in vehicles equipped with proper mortuary transportation systems.

No. NSW state law requires a licensed mortuary service to conduct all body transportations. All donors are transported in a professional and ethical manner in vehicles equipped with proper mortuary transportation systems.

Your family should still contact the Body Donor Program Coordinator as soon as possible by calling 02 9852 5095. The University will not accept body donations on public holidays or extended University holidays.

A death certificate is the official document issued by Births Deaths and Marriages (BDM) containing information recorded about a person who has died. The School of Medicine's funeral director will:

• Register the death within 7 days of the University receiving the donated body.
• Apply for the death certificate (this is done on behalf of the next of kin, executor or public guardian, so you do not need to apply yourself.
• Use the donor's consent form to collect the required personal information including birth, death and burial details, family member details, home address and occupation.

Once the death is registered BDM will send the certificate via registered mail directly to the  next of kin, executor or public guardian. Payment for one certificate is covered by the University.

You can obtain multiple death certificates by applying either online, by post or at your nearest Service NSW Centre. For more information on how to apply, please visit the BDM website or contact BDM by email.