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Dealing with the loss of a loved one is already a difficult and emotional time, and the added responsibility of planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, particularly with the increasing expenses of funeral services in Australia - an increase of nearly 12% over the last decade, so it's important to understand the expenses involved and find cost-effective ways to honour your loved ones.
In this guide, we will provide insights on funeral costs in Australia, how to reduce them, and options for those who cannot afford a funeral.
Understanding funeral costs in Australia:
The average cost of planning a private funeral in Australia ranges from $4,000 to $15,000, according to Moneysmart. Factors such as cremation vs burial, coffin or casket and funeral directors can impact the overall cost. Remember, the amount spent on a funeral does not reflect or change how much you loved or cared for the deceased. However, there are ways to make funeral costs more manageable while still honouring your loved ones.
Average funeral costs:
Below are common funeral expenses and their starting costs based on estimates provided by funeral directors across Australia:
- Funeral Director ($3,000)
- Transfer and storage of the deceased to the funeral home ($450)
- Embalming ($600-$1400)
- Coffins ($800-$8000+)
- Graveside burial service ($2,000)
- Cremation service ($600)
- Celebrant, family car, and flowers ($1000)
Reducing funeral costs
While funeral costs can be significant, there are ways to reduce the financial burden. Here are some tips to help you plan a funeral that can hopefully make it more cost-effective for you:
Choose cremation
Cremation services are generally less expensive than planning a burial. Cremation involves the use of heat to reduce the body to ashes, which eliminates the need for a burial plot, grave marker and other related costs. Cremated remains can be kept in an urn, scattered, or used in other memorial options.
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Pre-pay for your funeral
Funeral bonds and funeral insurance are effective ways to pre-plan and pre-pay for your funeral. Funeral bonds allow you to invest a specific amount of money, which can be used towards funeral expenses when the time comes. Funeral insurance involves paying regular premiums and the benefit is paid out to cover funeral costs upon your death. Pre-paying for your funeral can help reduce the financial burden on your loved ones and ensure that your funeral wishes are honoured.
Consider environmentally friendly coffins
With increasing awareness about environmental concerns, many families are opting for environmentally friendly funeral options such as natural burials, biodegradable coffins and eco-friendly cremation methods.
Cardboard or wicker coffins are more affordable compared to traditional wood or metal coffins and they are also more eco-friendly. These options are more environmentally conscious and cost-effective compared to traditional funeral practices.
Focus on sentiment, not extras
While additional extras like flowers, cars, notices and music can add a personal touch to a funeral, they can also increase your costs significantly. Prioritise what is truly meaningful to you and your loved one and consider if there are more cost-effective options available.
You could choose to have a smaller funeral service with minimal extras or opt for DIY options for decorations and notices.
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Financial assistance for funerals
If you are facing financial hardship and are unable to afford the cost of a funeral, there are options for financial assistance in Australia. Different states and territories have programs in place to help families who are unable to cover the full cost of a funeral. These programs may provide assistance for basic cremation and funeral services, allowing loved ones to attend and collect the ashes. It is best to research and understand the eligibility criteria and application process for these programs as they may vary depending on the state or territory you are in.
Seeking assistance from charitable organisations or crowdfunding platforms may also be options to consider when facing financial challenges in planning a funeral.
Changing trends in funerals in Australia
Funerals in Australia are evolving with changing trends that can also impact the cost of funeral planning. In recent years, there has been a shift towards celebrating the life of the deceased rather than mourning their passing. This has led to more personalised and unique funeral services that reflect the individuality of the person who has passed away.
DIY or at-home funerals
There has been a growing interest in DIY or at home funerals with families choosing to take a hands-on approach in planning and conducting funerals for their loved ones. This may involve preparing the body at home, holding the funeral service at home or in a community space and even building or decorating the coffin or urn themselves.
DIY funerals can provide a more personal and intimate experience while also being cost-effective compared to traditional funeral services.
Advancements in technology
Advancements in technology have also impacted funeral planning. Many families are now opting for online funeral planning services, where they can compare prices, make arrangements and even hold virtual funeral services. Virtual funeral services can be a more affordable option as they eliminate the need for physical transportation, venue costs and other associated expenses.
Shop around
Funeral costs can vary significantly among different funeral homes, it's essential to shop around and compare prices. Obtain quotes from multiple funeral directors and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs to make informed decisions.
Consider a direct burial or cremation
Direct burial or cremation involves skipping the traditional funeral service and burial or cremation takes place immediately after death, without embalming or elaborate funeral arrangements. This can be a more cost-effective option compared to a full traditional funeral service.
RELATED ARTICLE: Dispelling common myths about direct cremation
Opt for a memorial service
Instead of a traditional funeral service, you can choose to have a memorial service at a later date, which can be more cost-effective. This allows you to have a meaningful service without the immediate expenses associated with a traditional funeral.
Use your own resources
Creating your own order of service, printing funeral notices yourself or preparing food for the reception can help save on costs. Enlist the help of friends and family to create a personal and cost-effective funeral experience.
Funeral costs in Australia can be significant but there are ways to reduce the financial burden while still planning a meaningful funeral service. Understanding the costs involved, exploring cost-effective options and being mindful of your budget can help you plan a funeral that honours your loved one without causing further emotional stress.
