Funerals are one of the most emotionally significant events we’ll ever plan. It’s a time when some very difficult and important decisions need to be made; and if you have never planned a funeral, it can be overwhelming. For many Australians, this time also comes with an unexpected financial stress. Average traditional funeral parlour costs in Australia range anywhere from $11,000 to over $15,000, and it can be hard to determine what’s essential and what isn’t, especially during such a vulnerable time.
There are, however, a few simple steps and things to consider to ensure that you are getting a funeral that is not only within your budget, but more importantly, one that is authentic and true to the person being farewelled.
You have more choice than you think
Often, when someone dies, decisions need to be made quickly. In this vulnerable moment, it can be easy to go with the first option available or be guided towards a package or service that may not be the best or most suitable option for you and your family. Understanding that you have a choice and that there are a number of different funeral providers and services available is important.
Finding a compassionate funeral director that understands your family and your vision for the event is the foundation to planning a meaningful farewell. Funeral providers are required to be transparent about pricing, and you should feel comfortable talking about the costs involved. And if it’s not the right fit, know that you have the power and choice to walk away and to explore options.
Fixed pricing is on the rise
Traditional funeral homes have a reputation for having a confusing price structure. So, it’s important to ask the business for a detailed list of services and associated costs. Asking ‘How much is a funeral in Australia?’ is a bit like asking ‘How long is a piece of string?’ Often, you won’t find out the final cost until after the funeral itself.
Fixed pricing options are on the rise in Australia and are becoming a popular option for many looking to understand the costs upfront. As the Head of Memorials at Tomorrow Funerals, it’s important to me that we keep our costs simple and transparent. We believe that saying goodbye shouldn’t come with pressure, guilt, or unnecessary upsells. That’s why we offer one fixed price package that includes a sustainable coffin and everything else needed for a modern, respectful farewell. No hidden fees, no add-ons you didn’t ask for, just one simple price to help you plan an authentic farewell on your terms.
Watch out for unexpected upsells
It’s not uncommon for traditional funeral homes to offer package tiers, which can quickly inflate the total cost. During such a vulnerable time, it can be easy to be guided and steered toward costly upgrades such as premium coffins, elaborate floral arrangements, or expensive funeral cars. While these may suit some families, they’re not always necessary, nor do they always reflect the wishes of the person who has died.
Be careful of optional extra services such as fancy coffin handles, unnecessary embalming, upgraded hearses, up-charged floral arrangements or more expensive paper for the service booklet that may be sold as a standard offering. Again, some preferences and choices may be geared towards more elaborate details, however, if the funeral involves a cremation, some of those costly extras may not be necessary.
These upsells can significantly increase the price of a funeral, and may not add any personal or emotional value. It’s worth pausing and asking, “Is this something my loved one would have wanted? Or am I being sold a version of what a funeral “should” look like?”
Affordable and authentic alternatives
The good news is that cost-effective alternatives exist and they’re often more personal, too. For example, Tomorrow Funerals offers a flexible model that separates the cremation process from the farewell. This allows families to gather on their own terms, in places that hold real meaning, for example; a backyard, local nursery, favourite restaurant or pub, event space or even the beach.
By removing the pressure of a rushed, ‘one-size-fits-all’ ceremony, people can focus on what truly matters, which is honouring someone’s life in a way that feels right. Removing the notion of what “should” be expected at funerals and re-framing this view to what “could” be done can provide clarity and also reduce the financial burden at an already difficult time.
A farewell doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. With a bit of knowledge, families can make empowered choices that reflect their values, their budget, and the unique life of the person they’re remembering. Don’t be afraid to throw out the rule book and make a send off a memorable one for all the right reasons.
By Kate Morgan
Kate Morgan, Co-founder and Head of Memorials, Tomorrow Funerals
Kate Morgan is the Co-founder and Head of Memorials of Tomorrow Funerals, an independent Australian based start-up disrupting the traditional and outdated funeral industry, providing reimagined funeral services that are transparent, flexible and focus on the power of storytelling.
Tomorrow Funerals is here for a whole generation of people yearning for something modern and authentically different, changing the way we think about funerals and farewelling those we love. Visit the website or follow @tomorrow.stories.
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