Cheap funerals should not be a taboo topic. If you’ve been putting off discussing the funeral that you or your loved one want, change that today. You might be surprised by what you discover.Let’s take a look at some of the options you have when it comes to arranging a cheap funeral.

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Donating Your Body to Science

If this is something you’re comfortable with, depending on the institution you choose to donate your body to there may be no costs at all. For example, the University of Sydney will bear all costs and even cover a simple burial or cremation.

While the financial benefit of this option may be enticing, money isn’t everything. It’s important to think long and hard if you’re genuinely considering this option. Talk to your family and do your research. Often there are a number of eligibility requirements and restrictions on service options that you’ll need to get your head around first.

No Service, No Attendance Cremations

Also known as a “direct committal”, as the name suggests, this is a cremation which does not include any service or attendance. While it’s often possible to arrange a viewing prior to the cremation, there is very little fanfare involved in this option. 

Why would you choose a no service, no attendance cremation? People who choose this option are often cost conscious and may not have many friends or family remaining to attend a service. Sometimes people simply just prefer to make their exit from this world with as little fuss as possible.

One thing to consider before committing to a no service, no attendance cremation is that it can leave family and friends without closure and a proper chance to say goodbye.

Green Funerals

While more expensive than a direct cremation, green funerals can be a cheaper alternative for families who would still like a burial. Compared to a traditional funeral, green funerals dispense with the need for a coffin (many states permit the use of a simple shroud), a headstone, and a grave liner or burial vault. Natural burial sites are often cheaper than traditional cemeteries as there is a much lower upkeep and maintenance cost.

Memorial Services – the Best of Both Worlds

A memorial service is a service that takes place after the burial or cremation. They’re generally much cheaper to hold than a traditional funeral service and can be as simple as some food, drinks and speeches held at the family home several days after the cremation.

Combining a memorial service with a no service, no attendance cremation is a cheap funeral option that is growing in popularity, and it’s easy to understand why. On the one hand, you get to arrange a cost-effective disposal of the body, but also have the chance to properly remember, celebrate and pay respect to the life of your loved one.

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About eziFunerals

eziFunerals supports individuals and families cope with end of life decisions, death and funerals. We are an independent, Australian-owned and operated company. We are not part of any other funeral company.

Our member Funeral Directors operate in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Australia wide. Thet are chosen for their knowledge, quality, service, personalisation and experience. They go above and beyond, and will take the time to support the family.

For more information or to make contact with a trusted Independent funeral director, call eziFunerals on 1300 236 402 or visit www.ezifunerals.com.au.

 

 

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Peter

Peter Erceg is the Founder and Owner of eziFunerals — Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority. With more than 40 years of experience in government and public health, Peter has become one of the country’s leading voices on funeral transparency, consumer rights, and ethical funeral practices. Through eziFunerals, Peter has built a national platform that empowers Australian families to make informed end-of-life decisions — free from pressure, commissions, and confusion. His goal is simple: "to help every Australian plan smarter, save money, and choose funeral services with confidence." 🕊 eziFunerals was founded by Peter in 2011, as an independent funeral comparison and planning platform that allows consumers to: • Compare local funeral directors and transparent quotes, • Understand real funeral costs across Australia, and • Connect with trusted, independent funeral homes that uphold the Fair Funeral Promise. As Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority, eziFunerals is recognised by media, consumers, and funeral professionals for its leadership in price transparency and consumer protection. “We believe every family deserves a fair, dignified, and affordable farewell — without hidden fees or sales pressure.” 📘 Peter is the author of What Kind of Funeral: A Self-Help Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral, a practical guide that has helped thousands of Australians understand their options and avoid unnecessary costs. He regularly contributes articles and commentary on: • Funeral cost transparency and industry reform, • Prepaid funerals and consumer protection, • Emerging trends in eco-friendly and digital memorials, and • The role of AI and technology in end-of-life planning. 🎙 Peter and eziFunerals have been featured in major Australian media outlets including ABC News. His insights continue to shape the national conversation on funeral costs, consumer rights, and ethical practices in the funeral industry. ⚖️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Peter Erceg are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of eziFunerals or its members. The information provided on this site is general in nature and should not be taken as personal, legal, or financial advice. Consumers are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare funeral services that best meet their needs and circumstances.