The woman found dead in a car outside a police station has been identified as respected former Queensland councillor and journalist Kirsten Moriarty.

The 48-year-old’s body was discovered in the back of a blue Toyota Yaris parked outside Lake Illawarra Police Station, on the NSW South Coast, about 4.30pm on Friday.

Paramedics were called but determined she had been in an advanced state of decomposition, with the vehicle exposed to extreme heat for days.

NSW Police Assistant Commissioner Joe Cassar said it appeared Moriarty had been living in the car.

She is believed to have entered the police station on Tuesday and spoken with officers before returning to her car about 9pm.

A close high school friend said that Moriarty, who was single and had no partner, had gone to police for help — though police have not confirmed whether she was seeking assistance or attempting to lodge a report.

Journalist, author, councillor, and skydiver

Moriarty worked as a journalist for The Somerset Newspaper from 2009 and later authored a book, From Dark Days to Blue Skies, recounting how she “came back from the dead after a devastating skydiving accident” in July 2010.

During the jump with the Brisbane Skydiving Centre at Willowbank, the experienced skydiver claimed she drifted off target and struck two high-voltage power lines.

The 11,000-volt shock caused extensive burns to her ankles, thighs, neck and chest, and she remained trapped for nearly two hours before emergency crews could free her.

“The burns from high voltage electricity burn through every layer of the skin. They also burnt through a significant part of my muscle, which unfortunately doesn’t grow back,” she said at the time.

After enduring 16 operations, Moriarty returned to journalism six months later, saying she preferred to “write the front-page story, rather than be it”.

The avid skydiver returned to the sport just a year later and appeared in a 2014 7NEWS story about the Equinox Boogie, a skydiving and music festival.

“It’s the most amazing feeling, I get to fly, and it certainly gives me a nice birds eye view of our beautiful region,” she said in the report.

Moriarty was elected to Somerset Regional Council in 2012, inspired by the overwhelming community support she received during her recovery.

“During my time in hospital everyone I had met through my career in the Somerset, even if I had met them just once, sent me cards and letters which really helped me get through such a tough time,” she said.

“Now I want to give back to the community that gave me so much.”

Heartfelt tributes from community

Somerset locals who knew Moriarty say they are “extremely shocked and saddened” by her death.

Toogoolawah resident Charlie Lewis told 7NEWS.com.au that Moriarty was widely known and admired.

“She was a kindhearted woman with an infectious laugh who tried to help many, and didn’t judge, she treated everyone the same,” Lewis remembered.

In a photo shared by Lewis, Moriarty is seen standing between Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke and Somerset Deputy Mayor Helen Brieschke.

Lewis and her two children stand in the middle of the group, with Labor MP Shayne Neumann on the far left.

“We met with the minister to fight for koala protection for the Somerset,” Lewis said, adding that she herself continues to work in koala rescue.

Another local resident, Vivienne Pastars, described Moriarty as “courageous”.

“To go through such a traumatic accident and arise with strength, dignity and belief, shows the true depth of her character,” Pastars told 7NEWS.com.au.

Pastars, who knew her during her bid for mayor, said Moriarty was “a breath of fresh air” in council with her enthusiasm.

“Articulate and savvy with time to listen. I believe many people in the region were appreciative of a smart young woman taking on the long-term diehards that held their positions for way too long,” she said.

Somerset Regional Council also paid tribute, noting Moriarty worked as an employee for one year and served as a councillor from 2012 to 2016.

“Cr Moriarty served the community with dedication, contributing meaningfully to the region through her commitment to local issues and her willingness to advocate on behalf of residents,” the council said.

“Her service made a lasting impact, and she is remembered with respect and gratitude.

“On behalf of the Mayor, Councillors and staff, we extend our sincere condolences to Kirsten’s family, friends, and all who knew her.

“Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.”

A critical incident investigation has been launched into the circumstances of her death.

It will be overseen by the Professional Standards Command and the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.

Originally published on 7NEWS