NSW to reform coroner law after family's fight for next of kin change
NSW will give coroners power to choose the best family member to represent the deceased. This stops defaulting to the spouse.
Nicole Barry's campaign to change coronial law is becoming reality. The NSW government announced reforms this week.
Barry's younger sister Megan Best died from heart failure in October 2025. She was still legally married.
Her separated husband held rights to her body despite family estrangement. Barry's group, Meegie's Movement, pushed for change through a petition.
They also met with the Attorney General. The new law will let coroners appoint a different family member when the spouse is not suitable.
This applies in cases of domestic violence or estrangement. Anyone with enough connection to the deceased can nominate themselves.
Kylie Bailey's daughter died in 2023. She also campaigned for the reform.
She waited weeks while her daughter's former partner held legal rights. The bill goes to parliament on Thursday.
- October 2025, heart failure
- Megan Best's death
- Michael Daley announced reforms
- NSW Attorney General
Why it mattersFamilies facing sudden death will have more say in who represents them through the coronal process. This matters most in cases of estrangement or abuse.
AustraliaNSW families will no longer be forced to deal with separated or estranged spouses in death matters, potentially avoiding painful delays and disputes.
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