frequently asked questions

Here are 11 frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers regarding funerals in Australia.
NOTE: The terms 'funeral' and 'memorial' are used interchangeably in the following

1. Q: What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial?

ANSWER: A funeral is usually held soon after someone dies and the body, in a coffin or shroud, is present, whereas a memorial is more flexible and can be held days, weeks, months or even years after burial or cremation. Use the link below to read about why ceremony is so important to the grieving process.

2. Q: Why are funerals so expensive?

ANSWER: ​Funerals do not need to be costly to be meaningful. Using a hand-decorated shroud instead of an expensive coffin;  or holding a ceremony in a meaningful location are some simple ways to save costs. 

3. Q: Do I have to use a Funeral Director for all arrangements?

ANSWER: NO! You can manage all aspects of a funeral yourselves, provided it meets the legal requirements for registering the death and caring for the body. Alternatively, you may choose to engage a funeral director for specific services (eg transporting or storage of the body). The Australian Home Funeral Alliance (AHFA) is the best resource for finding out about family-led funeral option. You can find them in the link below

4. Q: Do I need to use a Funeral Director's 'in-house' celebrant?

ANSWER: NO! You are under no obligation to use a funeral director’s in-house celebrant. You are free to choose any celebrant you feel best suits your needs. Many independent funeral celebrants can be found online or social media.
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​Use the link below to find out exactly what a funeral celebrant does.

5. Q: Where can funerals be held?

ANSWER: ​Funerals can be held anywhere, such as a private home, park, beach, community hall, or any place that is meaningful to your person as long as legal and safety considerations are met.

6. Q: Must I be buried/cremated in a coffin?

ANSWER: NO! Burial in a coffin is not mandatory in Australia. Many cemeteries allow the use of a shroud or biodegradable container. Similarly, cremation can be performed with the body wrapped in a shroud, provided a rigid base, often called a shroud bearer is used. These options provide flexibility, and are more affordable and eco-friendly. Use the link below to the Natural Death Advocacy Network (NDAN) to find out about natural burial options.

7. Q: What are my burial options?

ANSWER: ​While traditional cremation or burial are common choices, they are not the only options. Natural Burial, Alkaline Hydrolysis (water cremation), and family-led home funerals offer alternative approaches that can be more eco-friendly, affordable, or aligned with personal values. These options provide flexibility and the opportunity to create a more unique and meaningful farewell. (Click on the individual links above to find out more...)

8. Q: What cemetery can I use?

ANSWER: You can choose any cemetery in Australia. It pays to 'shop around' for a burial plot, as the prices vary dramatically. Additional repatriation fees will apply for interstate burial. You can even be repatriated to your country of origin

9. Q: Do I have to be embalmed?

ANSWER: NO! ​Embalming is not legally required in most situations in Australia. It is usually only necessary for repatriation or burial in an above ground crypt.

10. Q: How soon after death must a burial/cremation occur?

ANSWER: There is no legal requirement for how soon a burial/cremation must happen. You can take the time you need for planning, especially if waiting for family members to travel. 

11. Q: Do I have to wear black to a funeral?

ANSWER: NO! Dress codes are very flexible and should reflect the personality and wishes of your person. 
Some misconceptions stem from outdated customs and understanding the facts helps you make informed choices. This information may encourage you to consider alternative funeral options.
If you have further questions please reach out and I will be happy to help.
"when I go from this place
dress the porch with garlands
as you would for a wedding my dear
pull the people from their homes
and dance in the streets
​when death arrives
like a bride at the aisle
send me off in my brightest clothing
serve ice cream with rose petals to our guests
there’s no reason to cry my dear
I have waited my whole life
for such a beauty to take
my breath away
when I go
let it be a celebration
for I have been here
I have lived
I have won at this game called life"

Rapi Kaur
sincere ceremonies - creating ceremonies that matter