Funeral Help & Financial Assistance in Australia | eziFunerals
The loss of a loved one is difficult enough without the added pressure of paying for funeral costs you may not be prepared for. If you’re struggling to cover funeral expenses, you’re not alone — and help may be available.
At eziFunerals, we understand that funerals can be expensive, especially when they happen unexpectedly. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help Australian families understand their options for funeral assistance, government support, and affordable planning.
How Much Does a Funeral Cost in Australia?
On average, funeral costs in Australia range from $4,000 to $15,000+, depending on the type of service, location, and choices made.
Typical expenses include:
- Funeral director fees
- Cremation or burial costs
- Transport
- Coffin or casket
- Venue hire
- Flowers, notices, and documentation
If you’re facing financial hardship, there are ways to reduce these costs or access support.
Who Can Get Funeral Financial Assistance?
You may be eligible for help if:
- You’re on a low income or government benefit
- The deceased had no assets or estate
- You are the next of kin or responsible for the funeral
- The person died under specific circumstances (e.g. in care or custody)
Assistance may come from government programs, superannuation funds, charities, or local community services.
Government Funeral Assistance by State
Each Australian state and territory has its own funeral assistance program. Here’s a summary:
New South Wales (NSW)
- NSW Department of Communities & Justice (DCJ) may cover costs when there are no funds or relatives
- Apply via your local DCJ office
Victoria (VIC)
- State Trustees may offer basic funeral services for those with no assets
- Apply via the Department of Health or local hospital social workers
Queensland (QLD)
- Queensland Government Funeral Assistance available for eligible low-income families
- Contact Queensland Health or local public hospital
Western Australia (WA)
- Public Trustee WA arranges minimal cost funerals where there is no estate
- Contact the Public Trustee office
South Australia (SA)
- Funeral Assistance SA may provide a basic service for those in hardship
- Ask Centrelink or a community services worker
Tasmania (TAS)
- Human Services Tasmania may provide limited help with funeral costs
- Apply via local service centres or funeral homes
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) & Northern Territory (NT)
- No formal program, but support may be available through:
- Centrelink
- Aboriginal support services
- Local hospitals or government agencies
Centrelink Bereavement Payments
Centrelink provides financial help to eligible individuals after the death of a partner, child, or dependent. Support may include:
- Bereavement Allowance
- Partnered Pension Adjustment
- Carer Payment adjustments
- Child Bereavement Payments
Check your eligibility and apply via servicesaustralia.gov.au or visit a Centrelink office.
Superannuation & Funeral Claims
If the deceased had superannuation, it may include:
- A death benefit
- Life insurance payout
- Early release of funds to cover funeral expenses
Contact the super fund directly to request a claim form. Processing times can vary, so keep receipts and seek advice from the funeral director.
Aboriginal Funeral Assistance
For First Nations families, additional support may be available through:
- Local Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS)
- Community-controlled organisations
- Indigenous-specific funeral funds
- Centrelink Indigenous Services
Respecting cultural traditions and community needs is a key priority for many funeral directors working in these spaces.
Other Sources of Funeral Help
1. Charities and Community Organisations
Some not-for-profits and religious groups offer financial aid or reduced-cost funerals. These include:
- The Salvation Army
- St Vincent de Paul
- Local churches or temples
- Migrant resource centres
- Funeral crowdfunding campaigns (e.g. GoFundMe)
2. Hospital or Aged Care Assistance
If the person died in hospital or aged care, the facility’s social worker or discharge planner may be able to assist you with referrals or funding support.
3. Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)
If the deceased was a veteran or war widow(er), you may be eligible for funeral benefits or allowances through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Low-Cost Funeral Options
If you don’t qualify for financial assistance, there are still ways to reduce costs:
- Choose direct cremation – no service, lowest cost
- Use eziFunerals to compare local providers and save up to 30%
- Ask about payment plans or prepaid options
- Opt for a simple coffin, or supply your own if allowed
- Hold a memorial at home or a free public venue
We can help you plan an affordable funeral without sacrificing dignity.
How eziFunerals Can Help
We support Australian families by:
- Helping you compare funeral directors and prices in your area
- Connecting you with funeral homes that offer payment plans or low-cost options
- Providing resources and planning tools for families facing hardship
- Offering independent advice — we work for families, not funeral companies
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Start Today: Get a Free Quote
If you’re worried about how to afford a funeral, eziFunerals can help you find a trusted, affordable provider quickly.
Get started now:
- Request a Free Funeral Quote »
- Or call us on 1300 236 402 for personal assistance
eziFunerals — Supporting families through every step with compassion, clarity, and care.
