How to Plan a Funeral in Australia?

HOW TO PLAN A FUNERAL IN AUSTRALIA

How to Plan a Funeral in Australia | Step-by-Step Guide from eziFunerals

Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming — especially if you’ve never done it before. There are emotional decisions to make, practical tasks to organise, and costs to consider. But with the right support and tools, it doesn’t have to be difficult.

At eziFunerals, we help Australians plan funerals with clarity, care, and confidence. Whether you’re arranging a service today or planning ahead, this guide explains how to plan a funeral in Australia — step by step.

Step 1: Understand What Needs to Be Done

When someone passes away, it’s important to:

• Confirm the death
• Notify family and close friends
• Contact a funeral director (if needed)
• Locate any prepaid funeral plans or a Will
• Begin planning the type of funeral or memorial

Not sure where to start? Use our funeral planning checklist to stay organised.

Step 2: Decide on the Type of Service

Funerals in Australia can take many forms. You’ll need to decide:

• Cremation or burial?
• Traditional funeral, memorial, or direct cremation?
• Religious, spiritual or non-religious?
• Formal, casual, or a celebration of life?

eziFunerals lets you explore different service types and find what’s right for your loved one.

Step 3: Choose a Funeral Director

A funeral director will help with:

• Transport and care of the deceased
• Arranging cremation or burial
• Coordinating the service
• Handling legal paperwork and death registration

Use ezifunerals.com.au/get-a-quote to compare local funeral directors — and receive obligation-free quotes online.

Step 4: Select a Venue and Date

Common funeral venues include:

• Chapels at cemeteries or crematoriums
• Churches or places of worship
• Community halls
• Parks, beaches or private homes
• Funeral homes

You’ll need to coordinate the date and time with the funeral provider and venue. Consider accessibility for guests and livestreaming options if needed.

Step 5: Plan the Ceremony Details

Personalising the funeral service can make it truly memorable. Think about:

• Who will lead the service (celebrant, clergy or MC)
• Eulogies or readings by family/friends
• Music and slideshow tributes
• Flowers and décor
• Cultural or religious rituals
• Printed orders of service or memorial cards

You can use eziFunerals to gather preferences, plan content, and share details with loved ones.

Step 6: Register the Death and Obtain Certificates

The funeral director usually registers the death with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state. You’ll then receive an official death certificate — required for managing:

• Banks and superannuation
• Centrelink and Medicare
• Property and estate matters
• Life insurance or funeral claims

It’s wise to order several certified copies.

Step 7: Notify Relevant Organisations

After the funeral, you’ll need to inform:

• Government services (ATO, Centrelink, DVA, Medicare)
• Banks, insurers, super funds
• Employers, clubs, and utility providers
• The electoral roll

The Death Notification Service can help notify multiple organisations at once.

Step 8: Manage the Estate

If there is a Will, the appointed executor must:

• Apply for probate (if needed)
• Identify and value assets
• Pay debts and distribute the estate
• Keep detailed records of all actions

If there’s no Will, intestacy laws apply. You may need legal advice. eziFunerals can connect you with estate administration professionals if required.

Tips for Planning Ahead

Planning your own funeral can bring peace of mind — and reduce stress for loved ones later.

Benefits of planning ahead:

• Lock in today’s prices with a prepaid plan
• Clearly document your wishes
• Appoint a Funeral Guardian to carry out instructions
• Avoid rushed decisions during a time of grief

Start for free at ezifunerals.com.au/funeral-planning-your-way

How eziFunerals Makes Funeral Planning Easier

We offer:

• Free planning checklists and templates
• Price comparison tools
• Australia-wide funeral director network
• Funeral planning support (now or in advance)
• Independent, trusted advice — we work for families, not funeral homes

We help you plan a funeral that reflects your values, your culture, and your budget.

Get Started Today

Whether you’re arranging a funeral now or planning for the future, eziFunerals is here to help.

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

eziFunerals — Helping Australians plan better goodbyes.