Smith, Ms A.M.

In reply to the Hon. F. PANGALLO (17 June 2020).

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer): The Attorney-General has provided the following advice:

Although some cases, requiring further histological, neuropathological and/or other examinations, may take 12 to 16 months before a final report is prepared, less complex cases can be reported in shorter time frames. Cases involving matters of public interest are completed as soon as possible.

Preliminary findings into the cause of death are peer-reviewed and reported to the State Coroner on the day of the post-mortem. In cases involving suspicious circumstances or criminal offending, Forensic Science SA staff including the pathologist collaborate with SAPOL and the Coroner's office to assist with ongoing investigations.

The following recently introduced measures will all contribute to streamlining the post-mortem process and in doing so reduce the backlog in post-mortem reports and provide assistance to grieving families:

The parliamentary amendment to the Coroner's Act of 2003 enabling the State Coroner to make a finding of 'undetermined natural causes',

The installation of a CT scanner at Forensic Science SA enabling the pathologists to advise the State Coroner of the most appropriate examination to determine the medical cause of death, whether that is a full post-mortem, a partial post-mortem or a CT scan and external examination only.

The temporary employment of staff to assist in supporting roles for the post-mortem process; mortuary technical support, administration and medical typing.