Family Accounts of Their Experiences and Expectations of Authorities Following Sudden Workplace Death in Queensland, Australia

Families bereaved by sudden work-related death are underrepresented in the literature therefore little is known about their engagement with the justice system. This qualitative study explored families' experiences and expectations of authorities in the legal system following sudden workplace death. We analyzed emergent meaning from transcript data of four focus groups. Six broad themes were identified: just outcome, delivery of workplace safety, family liaison, access to information, assistance for affected people, and representation and voice. The findings provide insights into broad expectations participants had of authorities, contextualized within their experience, which can inform practical response.