Aim: To investigate the incidence and characteristics of fatal non-technical errors using data from the Australian and New Zealand Audit of Surgical Mortality (ANZASM). Methods: All surgical deaths reported to ANZASM from 2012-2019, flagged with an Adverse Event or Area for concern were retrospectively assessed. The incidence of fatal non-technical errors, predictors of non-technical error occurrence, and change in non-technical error incidence over time were assessed using descriptive statistics, multi-variable analyses, and SPC charts respectively. Results: 30 971 surgical mortalities were reported to ANZASM from 2012-2019. 3695 met inclusion criteria and were analysed. Non-technical errors linked to death were identified in 63.7% of cases. Of these, 58.4% had Decision Making errors, 56.4% had Situational Awareness errors, 15.2% had Communication/Teamwork errors, and 5.4% had Leadership errors. Patient age, Hospital type, and Admission status were identified as statistically significant predictors. A significant decrease in overall non-technical errors was demonstrated over the study period with periods of significant decrease for Communication/Teamwork and Leadership errors. No decrease in Decision Making and Situational Awareness errors were demonstrated. Conclusion: This study provides the first quantitative evidence of the incidence and characteristics of fatal non-technical errors in Australia. National non-technical skill priorities have been identified, providing targets for future improvement. ANZASM is the only mandatory, national, non-technical skill improvement activity in Australia, therefore, the significant reduction in non-technical errors are likely attributable to ANZASM processes.