Preventing future deaths: inside the coronial system

Preventing future deaths: inside the coronial system

Have you ever wondered what the role of the coronial system is in Victoria? What evidence is considered during investigations and by whom? And how investigating unexpected and unexplained deaths can help save lives?

This year’s joint Law Week 2026 event presented by the Coroners Court of Victoria and the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, will pull back the curtain on the coronial process and how it supports the health and wellbeing of the Victorian community.

Hear from a panel of legal and forensic experts on topics including the role of the coroner, how coronial investigations and inquests are conducted and the vital evidence that informs the investigative procedures used by the coroner.

Where: 65 Kavanagh St, Southbank, Melbourne

When: 6pm, Tuesday 19 May 2026

Tickets through Eventbrite

Why Attend

Every coronial investigation has the potential to save lives. This event offers a rare opportunity to understand how law and medicine intersect to uncover insights, drive reform, and ultimately make our communities safer.

What You’ll Learn

· How the Law supports death prevention through coronial investigations and inquests, and the legal role of coroners in public health and safety

· How coronial findings and recommendations work in practice and how the justice and health sectors act and respond

· How VIFMs forensic experts help prevent deaths in Victoria through scientific research and family health referrals

How it will work

This is an in-person panel discussion featuring experts from across the coronial system, including:

· a Coroner from the Coroners Court of Victoria

· a member of the Coroners Prevention Unit (CPU) at the Coroners Court of Victoria

· A senior forensic pathologist from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine

The session will include a moderated discussion followed by an audience Q&A.

Who Should Attend

· Members of the public interested in the legal system

· Students and professionals in law, health, or forensic science

· Anyone curious about how investigations into death can lead to life-saving changes

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Coroners Court of Victoria and Victorian Forensic Institute of Medicine