Some people wish to contribute to science and medical research by bequeathing their body to a research institution. This is an important contribution to universities and organisations across the state, however, if not done properly, your gift may not be legally possible.
DONATING THROUGH A WILL?
In New South Wales, it is not possible to consent to donate your body to science through your Will alone, and research organisations will not be able to accept donations from your executor.
WHAT SHOULD I DO INSTEAD?
To make an effective donation of your body, there are important steps to take:
- Identify which organisation you’d like to receive your donation
There are a number of organisations which may benefit from your donation, including universities, the Organ Donor Register and the Brain Bank. A list of these organisations is available at the bottom of this page.
Each organisation has its own list of criteria which may make you ineligible, including certain illnesses or risk factors. Consider carefully whether your chosen organisation will be able to accept your contribution
- Register with the organisation
Each organisation has a registration process for donors, including medical disclosures. Get in touch with them directly to commence the process
- Prepare your Will and nominate your executor
Make sure the person responsible for managing your affairs when you pass is aware of your registration with the organisation and has a copy of relevant paperwork. When you pass, there is a very limited window of time for your donation to be accepted by the organisation and transported to their facilities for use. Your executor can take steps as soon as you pass to contact the organisation and increase the chances of a successful donation. Your executor should also be aware of your alternative preferences if your body cannot be accepted.
HOW LONG CAN MY REMAINS BE STORED
Under NSW law, human specimens can be stored for a maximum of four years, with a possible extension for an additional four years.
WHAT HAPPENS ONCE MY REMAINS CAN NO LONGER BE USED?
While each organisation will have different processes, many organisations will arrange for cremation at the end of the retention period, and will cover the costs of the cremation. Your family will then be able to receive your ashes.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY REMAINS CAN’T BE ACCEPTED?
There are many reasons why an organisation may be unable to accept your donation, including illnesses or medical reasons, if you pass outside of their donation area or if there is limited capacity to accept your donation. If this happens, your executor or family will be responsible for making decisions about if your body should be buried, cremated or otherwise managed. It is important you communicate your alternate wishes with your loved ones.
ORGANISATIONS ACCEPTING DONATIONS
University of New South Wales School of Biomedical Sciences – Bequeathal Program: https://www.unsw.edu.au/medicine-health/our-schools/biomedical-sciences/partner-with-us/bequeathal-program
University of Technology, Sydney – Body Donation Program: https://www.uts.edu.au/about/faculty-science/surgical-and-anatomical-science-facility/body-donation-program
University of Sydney – Body Donor Program: https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/industry-and-community/support-us/body-donations.html
Macquarie University – Body Donations: https://www.mq.edu.au/faculty-of-medicine-health-and-human-sciences/engage-with-us/body-donations
Western Sydney University – Body Donor Program: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/body-donor-program
Australian Organ Donor Register: https://www.donatelife.gov.au/register-donor-today
MS Australia Brain Bank: https://msbrainbank.org.au/
Lions Eye Bank: https://lionssavesightfoundation.org.au/lions-nsw-eye-bank (Please note, donations to the Eye Bank can be facilitated through the Australian Organ Donor Register)
Please note this list is not exhaustive.
