FUNERAL PLANNING FOR DUMMIES

FUNERAL PLANNING FOR DUMMIES

Funeral Planning for Dummies Australia | The No-Stress Guide by eziFunerals

Let’s be honest — no one really wants to plan a funeral. It’s emotional, unfamiliar, and can be overwhelming. But knowing the basics can make a big difference. Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or organising a funeral for a loved one, this “Funeral Planning for Dummies – Australia” guide from eziFunerals breaks it down into simple, clear steps.

Because saying goodbye shouldn’t mean losing control, your savings, or your sanity.

What Is Funeral Planning?

Funeral planning is the process of organising the arrangements for someone’s farewell. It includes choosing between cremation or burial, selecting a funeral provider, deciding on a service type, managing paperwork, and setting a budget.

You can plan a funeral:

• After someone dies (at-need)
• In advance (pre-need or prepaid)

Either way, it doesn’t have to be difficult — especially with the right tools and support.

Step 1: Understand What Needs to Happen First

If someone has just passed away:

• A doctor needs to confirm the death and issue a certificate
• If the death is unexpected or at home, contact emergency services
• Locate any Will or prepaid funeral plan
• Notify close family and decide who will take the lead in organising the funeral

Step 2: Burial or Cremation?

This is the first major decision. It impacts cost, location, and the kind of service you’ll organise.

No wrong choice — it’s about your family’s values, wishes, and budget.

Step 3: Choose the Type of Service

There are many types of funerals. Pick one that fits your loved one’s life (and your wallet):

• Traditional funeral: Viewing, service, burial or cremation
• Memorial service: After cremation, without the body present
• Direct cremation: No service at all — the most cost-effective option
• Celebration of life: Informal, personal, and often held at home or outdoors
• Religious or cultural ceremony: Customised for your community’s traditions

Want to compare providers who offer these services? Start here

Step 4: Choose a Funeral Director

Do you need one? Not legally — but most families find it helpful.

A funeral director handles:

• Transport of the deceased
• Legal paperwork and death registration
• Booking venues and crematoria
• Coordinating the ceremony and extras

eziFunerals lets you compare funeral directors near you — no pressure, no hidden fees.

Step 5: Personalise the Service

Make it feel like them. Here’s how:

• Choose music that mattered
• Write a heartfelt eulogy or ask someone to speak
• Add a slideshow or memory board
• Include flowers, symbols, rituals, or prayers
• Livestream the event for those far away

The goal? Celebrate the life that was — not just mourn the loss.

Step 6: Register the Death

This is a legal requirement, usually handled by the funeral director. The death must be registered with your state’s Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, and an official Death Certificate issued.

You’ll need this to:

• Close bank accounts
• Claim superannuation or insurance
• Finalise the estate

Order extra certified copies — you’ll need them.

Step 7: Set a Budget

Funerals can get expensive fast. Avoid surprises by knowing your options:

To keep costs under control:

• Compare multiple quotes
• Ask for itemised pricing
• Avoid upselling and emotional pressure
• Consider a prepaid or direct cremation option

Get a quote in minutes

Bonus: How to Plan Your Own Funeral (Yes, You Can!)

Preplanning your own funeral helps:

• Lock in prices at today’s rates
• Spare your family the stress
• Ensure your wishes are respected
• Avoid emotional overspending

With eziFunerals, you can:

• Record your wishes for free
• Compare prepaid funeral plans
• Appoint a Funeral Guardian to carry them out

Start your free funeral plan today

Why Use eziFunerals?

We’re not owned by funeral companies. We work for you. Here’s what you get:

• 100% independent advice
• Access to trusted local providers
• Transparent, obligation-free quotes
• Free planning checklists and templates
• Support across all states and territories

Our mission? Make funeral planning simpler, fairer, and more personal.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re organising a funeral now or planning for the future, eziFunerals is here to help you do it without confusion or stress.

• Compare funeral directors
• Plan your funeral online
• Or call 1300 236 402 for support

eziFunerals — Because everyone deserves a good goodbye.