Hayley West is an independent death worker, end-of-life consultant and socially engaged artist based in Castlemaine, Central Victoria. For over 20 years, her practice has explored mortality, grief and collective memory through exhibitions, residencies and community projects worldwide. She hosts DEAD AIR on 94.9MAINfm, opening candid conversations about death, and is a member of the Natural Death Advocacy Network and Australian Home Funeral Alliance.

Through The Departure, Hayley offers accessible, values-driven end-of-life care, prioritising transparency, sustainability and community partnerships. Her services empower families to create meaningful farewells, from natural burials to home vigils, that minimise both financial burden and environmental impact.

Beyond practical care, Hayley fosters death literacy through workshops, radio and regional collaborations, helping people approach mortality with clarity and creativity. Her work reframes death as a shared, natural process woven into care, culture and connection.