Planning 101 | Everything Australians Need to Know
Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming — especially when emotions are high and decisions need to be made quickly. But with the right information and tools, you can create a meaningful farewell that reflects your loved one’s life, values, and wishes.
Whether you’re planning ahead or arranging a service now, this Funeral Planning 101 Guide from eziFunerals will walk you through the process step-by-step.
What Is Funeral Planning?
Funeral planning involves organising the arrangements for a burial, cremation, or memorial service. It includes:
- Choosing a funeral provider
- Deciding on burial vs cremation
- Selecting a venue and service style
- Arranging music, readings, and personal touches
- Managing legal paperwork and death registration
- Setting a budget and understanding costs
eziFunerals makes this process simple and stress-free — whether you’re organising a funeral today or planning your own in advance.
Step-by-Step Funeral Planning Checklist
1. Decide on Burial or Cremation
Cremation: More affordable and flexible; ashes can be kept, scattered or buried
Burial: Traditional option; includes cemetery plot, headstone and ongoing upkeep
2. Choose the Type of Service
- Traditional funeral
- Memorial service
- Graveside service
- Direct cremation (no service)
- Celebration of life
Consider cultural, religious or personal preferences when making this decision.
3. Select a Funeral Provider
Use ezifunerals.com.au/get-a-quote to:
- Compare local funeral directors
- View services, prices, and reviews
- Request obligation-free quotes
We help you avoid emotional overspending and choose with confidence.
4. Pick a Venue
Options include:
- Funeral home chapels
- Churches or places of worship
- Cemeteries or crematoriums
- Outdoor or private venues
- At-home services
Coordinate the date and location early to ensure availability.
5. Personalise the Ceremony
This is your opportunity to honour your loved one’s life. Consider:
- Music, readings, poems
- Eulogies and video tributes
- Flowers and décor
- Order of service programs
- Religious or cultural rituals
- Livestreaming for remote guests
6. Organise Legal Documents
You’ll need to:
- Register the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages
- Obtain an official death certificate
- Notify government services, banks, insurers, superannuation and Medicare
- Begin any estate and probate processes
Your funeral director can assist with these tasks.
Preplanning Your Own Funeral
Funeral planning isn’t just for after a death — it’s also a wise choice for those who want to prepare in advance.
Benefits of planning ahead:
- Lock in today’s prices
- Avoid family stress and conflict
- Ensure your wishes are documented and followed
- Choose your preferred provider, music, location and style
- Decide whether you want a prepaid funeral or funeral bond
What to Do When Someone Dies
If someone has just passed away, here’s what to do:
- Notify the doctor or hospital staff
- Contact next of kin
- Locate any funeral plans or Will
- Arrange for the body to be transferred to a funeral home
- Begin the planning process with eziFunerals or a chosen provider
Our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.
What Makes eziFunerals Different?
We’re Australia’s only 100% independent funeral planning platform — not owned by any funeral home.
We offer:
-
Transparent, obligation-free quotes
-
Free planning tools and checklists
-
Resources for all types of funerals and budgets
-
Nationwide coverage across capital cities and regional areas
-
Guidance for prepaid funerals, green options, and grief support
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use a funeral director?
No, but most people do for legal and logistical reasons. eziFunerals can help you find one that suits your needs.
Can I bring my own coffin or urn?
Yes. You’re legally allowed to supply your own coffin if it meets safety standards.
Is it cheaper to plan ahead?
Yes. Prepaid funerals and advance planning protect against rising costs and ease the burden on loved ones.
How do I involve my family in the planning?
You can share your eziFunerals plan digitally with your family and update it anytime.
Start Planning Today
Whether you need help now or want to plan for the future, eziFunerals makes funeral planning simple, respectful and transparent.
- Get a quote
- Create a free funeral plan
- Or call 1300 236 402 for personal support
eziFunerals — Australia’s trusted platform for funeral planning and comparison.
