When you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, the last thing you want to worry about is money. But funeral costs can add up quickly, and they’re often unexpected once you have found out how much funeral costs are and look at the average funeral cost in Australia. The average cost of a burial in Australia is around $19,000, price is going to be a factor for most families.
SOME OF THE MAJOR COSTS INVOLVED IN A FUNERAL
- Professional Services Fee covers the arrangement of the funeral, such as meeting with the family and organising the venue, newspaper notices, death certificates, celebrants and other third parties
- Mortuary Care Fee preparation and storage of the body
- Viewing Fee visitation of the deceased before the funeral
- Transfer Fee transportation of the deceased to the funeral home
- Third-Party Fees any services supplied by third parties, such as a celebrant, musician, flowers, newspaper notices, venue hire and catering
- The coffin or casket
WAYS TO SAVE ON FUNERAL COSTS
Funerals can be both expensive and emotionally challenging. However, there are ways to minimize the costs and ensure a meaningful farewell to your loved one or for yourself. Here are some tips to help you save money:
Opt for Direct Cremation
A direct cremation is the simplest and most budget-friendly option. It involves transporting the deceased directly to the crematory without a viewing or service. This option can save you thousands compared to a traditional funeral with a viewing and burial.
Pick a Less Pricey Coffin
Coffins come in a wide range of prices, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Choosing a less expensive coffin, such as fiberboard or cardboard, can significantly reduce funeral costs.
Hold the Funeral at a Non-Traditional Venue
Having the funeral at a location other than a funeral home, like a park or community center, can save on rental fees. Additionally, it creates a more personal and meaningful setting for the farewell.
Shop Around for Funeral Services
Funeral homes often charge different prices for similar services. So it’s important to compare costs and ask for itemized quotes. Be sure to understand what is included by reading the fine print.
Pre-Plan Your Funeral
Pre-planning your funeral can provide peace of mind and also lock in prices at today’s rates, avoiding potential future inflation. Many funeral homes offer pre-planning services that allow you to choose the services and merchandise you want, which can help control costs.
A green funeral is also worth considering as it’s a natural, eco-friendly, and less expensive alternative to a traditional funeral. A green funeral typically involves a simple burial in a biodegradable coffin and the use of natural and sustainable materials. By choosing a green funeral, you’re not only saving money, but also contributing to the environment.
Hidden Costs and Add Ons
Cemetery plot and headstone costs
- Embalming fees
- Funeral service fees
- Funeral home transportation fees
- Cost of a casket or urn
- Death certificate fees
- Flowers and obituary costs
- Preparation of the body for viewing
- Reception or catering fees
- Additional services such as a funeral procession, live music, or a graveside service.
It’s crucial to thoroughly review the funeral contract and ask questions to fully understand the costs involved.
Planning a funeral can be difficult and overwhelming, but with a little research and preparation, you can minimize expenses and focus on what’s important. By considering options such as direct cremation, a less expensive coffin, a non-traditional venue, shopping around for funeral services, and pre-planning, you can have a beautiful and meaningful farewell without going over budget.
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