When saying goodbye to a loved one, choosing the right headstone or grave marker is one of the most important and personal decisions a family will make. A headstone is more than just a marker—it’s a tribute that stands the test of time, capturing the essence of someone’s life and legacy.
At eziFunerals, we understand that this decision can feel overwhelming. With many styles, materials, wording options, and price ranges available, it’s essential to have the right information to make a thoughtful and lasting choice. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about headstones and grave markers in Australia.
What Is a Headstone or Grave Marker?
A headstone (also called a tombstone, or gravestone) is a stone marker placed at the head of a grave. It usually bears inscribed information such as the name of the deceased, their date of birth and death, and a personal message or epitaph.
A grave marker may refer to any marker at a grave site, such as a flat plaque, upright stone, or even a temporary marker until a headstone is installed.
Although the terms are often but not always interchangeable, the primary difference is in form and style:
- Headstones are vertical, upright stones.
- Grave markers can be flat or low to the ground.
- These can be of impressive sculpture and architectural design.
- Plaques are commonly used in lawn cemeteries with certain restrictions.
Types of Headstones and Grave Markers
Headstones are available in different styles, sizes, and materials in Australia to comply with the cemetery regulations and budget requirements.
1. Upright Headstones
These are the most conventional style and may be crafted out of granite or marble. They have plenty of room for inscriptions and are very visible.
2. Flat Markers (Lawn Markers)
Also called flat headstones, these are flush to the ground. They’re a staple in lawn cemeteries that favor unformity and low maintenance.
3. Slant Markers
They are wedge-shaped and rest on a concrete or stone base. They are a middle ground between flat and upright styles.
4. Bronze Plaques
Bronze plaques, which won’t rust and can be mounted on concrete or granite bases, are used in some modern cemeteries.
5. Kerbed Monuments
More involved choice as it describes the entire grave. These are often less so for family plots or cultural traditions.
Headstone Materials: Which One Is Best?
The material you choose affects the durability, appearance, and cost of the headstone.
- Granite: The most popular choice. It’s durable, weather-resistant, and available in a wide range of colours.
- Marble: Offers a classic, elegant look, but is more prone to weathering over time.
- Sandstone: Traditional in older Australian cemeteries but can erode.
- Bronze: Often used in plaques, it develops a patina over time but remains legible.
- Concrete: Sometimes used for temporary markers or base structures.
Tip: Always check with your chosen cemetery, as some may have strict rules about the type, size, and material of headstones allowed.
How Much Do Headstones Cost in Australia?
Headstone prices in Australia vary based on material, size, design complexity, and location. Here’s a rough guide:
| Type | Approximate Cost (AUD) |
| Flat Marker | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Upright Granite Headstone | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Bronze Plaque | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Kerbed Monument | $6,000 – $15,000+ |
Other cost factors include:
- Installation and delivery fees
- Cemetery permit charges
- Additional inscriptions later (e.g. adding another name)
- Custom artwork or imagery
At eziFunerals, we can help you compare quotes from trusted providers in your area.
Headstone Wording: Choosing the Right Words
Wording a headstone can feel like an impossible task. You want to capture a life in just a few lines. Here are some common elements:
- Full Name
- Dates of Birth and Death
- Epitaph or Sentiment (“Forever in our hearts”, “Rest in Peace”, etc.)
- Personal Quotes or Scriptures
- Images or Symbols (religious symbols, flowers, military emblems)
Headstone Wording Ideas:
- “In Loving Memory of a Devoted Mother and Friend”
- “A Life That Touched So Many”
- “Forever Loved, Never Forgotten”
- “Gone from our sight, but never from our hearts”
Designing a Custom Headstone
Custom headstones allow you to reflect the personality and passions of your loved one. You can customise:
- Font styles and layout
- Colours and finishes
- Carved symbols or emblems (crosses, angels, hobbies)
- Portraits or ceramic photos
- QR codes (for digital memorials)
Headstone Regulations in Australian Cemeteries
Each cemetery has its own regulations about:
- Maximum and minimum headstone sizes
- Permitted materials and designs
- Installation by approved masons only
- Lawn cemeteries often require flush or standard-sized plaques
We always recommend contacting your cemetery before purchasing a headstone to ensure compliance.
When Should You Install a Headstone?
Most cemeteries in Australia recommend waiting 6 to 12 months after burial to allow the ground to settle before installing a permanent monument. However, this can vary depending on the region, soil type, and weather conditions.
How eziFunerals Can Help
Choosing a headstone doesn’t have to be difficult. With eziFunerals, you can:
- Find headstone suppliers
- Browse designs and wording ideas
- Get help from our funeral concierge
- Access transparent pricing and reviews
- Support independent stonemasons
Whether you’re planning ahead or arranging a funeral now, we’re here to help you make informed, respectful choices.
Final Thoughts
A headstone is a powerful symbol of remembrance. It stands not only as a tribute to a life lived but also as a place for loved ones to gather, reflect, and remember. By understanding your options and working with trusted providers, you can create something truly meaningful and lasting.
Need help choosing a headstone or monument?
Start with eziFunerals today – Australia’s #1 Funeral Planning Site.
Peter Erceg
Peter Erceg is the Owner and Founder of eziFunerals. He has had a long history within the funeral industry, and is a published author of ‘What Kind Of Funeral: A self help guide to planning a meaningful funeral’. Prior to eziFunerals, Peter worked in the public sector and health industry for more than 30 years. The views and opinions expressed on posts are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of eziFunerals and members.
