Different types of funerals in Australia

Although planning for what comes after your death may feel stressful, it is an important aspect of estate planning. One of the decisions you'll need to make is choosing the type of funeral that aligns with your values and reflects your wishes. In Australia, there are several different types of funerals to choose from.

Choosing a funeral type 

When it comes to planning your funeral or your loved one's, focus on what truly matters, rather than trying to replicate what you think a funeral should look like or what others might want. A funeral should be a reflection of a person's values, beliefs, and the life they lived. By considering these wishes, you can ensure a funeral that is a meaningful celebration of life.

Traditional funeral

The traditional funeral is the most common type of funeral in Australia. It typically consists of three main sections, the viewing or visitation, the funeral service and the burial ceremony. The casket or coffin is usually displayed at the front of the service, allowing family and friends to pay their respects. Traditional funerals often follow religious or cultural customs and may include readings, music and eulogies. After the service, the deceased is buried in a cemetery or cremated.

Direct burial

A direct burial is one of the most cost-effective types of funerals. It involves transporting the deceased directly to the gravesite for burial or cremation, without any viewing, visitation or funeral service. After the burial or cremation, families may choose to host a separate service or gathering to honour the memory of their loved one in a way that is meaningful to them.

Cremation 

Cremation is becoming increasingly popular as a choice for funerals in Australia. You can choose to have a cremation ceremony without a funeral service or you can opt for a cremation with a funeral service. Cremation also offers flexibility in terms of the final resting place of the ashes, such as scattering them in a location that holds special meaning to you.

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Graveside funeral

A graveside funeral is a type of funeral where the entire service takes place at the cemetery or crematorium. It includes a brief committal ceremony at the graveside, providing loved ones with more privacy to say their goodbyes and honour their religious beliefs, wishes and family traditions. Graveside funerals are known to be shorter and more intimate with the focus on the burial or cremation of the deceased.

Memorial or wake

A memorial or wake service is becoming increasingly popular amongst younger generations. This type of funeral is considered a celebration of life and does not involve the presence of the deceased. It is often less formal and allows loved ones to gather and reminisce about the life of the deceased in a more informal setting, sharing stories, memories, and anecdotes.   Memorial or wake services can be held at a variety of locations, such as a family home, a park, or a community hall and can be customised to reflect the personality and interests of your loved one. 

Green funeral

A green funeral aims to minimise the impact on the environment by choosing eco-friendly options. It may involve burying the body at a natural burial site, where the body goes directly into the earth without a casket  or choosing a biodegradable or sustainably made coffin. Green funerals are becoming more popular among those who are environmentally conscious and wish to have a funeral that aligns with their eco-friendly values.   

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Alternative funerals

Alternative funerals include themed funerals that reflect the hobbies, interests, or passions of your loved one. This includes a beach themed funeral for a surfer, or a motorcycle-themed funeral for an avid rider. Other alternative funeral options may include eco-friendly options like water cremation, also known as aquamation. 

Home funerals

Home funerals, also known as DIY funerals or family-led funerals are another alternative option where the family takes care of all aspects of the funeral process themselves. This includes caring for the body, planning the funeral service and organising the burial or cremation. Home funerals can be deeply personal and allow the family to have full control over the funeral arrangements. This type of funeral can take place at the family home, a family farm or any location that holds special significance to the deceased.

Celebrant-led funerals

A celebrant-led funeral is a type of funeral service led by a funeral celebrant, who is a trained professional that specialises in creating personalised funeral ceremonies. Funeral celebrants work with the family to create a unique and meaningful funeral service that reflects the life, beliefs and values of your loved one. Celebrant-led funerals can be non-religious or multi-faith and they provide an opportunity for families to have a customised and personalised farewell that is tailored to specific needs and preferences.  

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There are various funeral types available in Australia, each has its unique characteristics and allows individuals and families to create a personalised farewell that aligns with their beliefs. Discuss your options with your loved ones or a funeral professional to ensure that your funeral is planned according to your wishes.