Memorials and Headstones: Honouring a Life with a Lasting Tribute
Choosing a memorial or headstone is an important way to honour a loved one’s memory. It provides a permanent place for family and friends to reflect, remember, and pay tribute for generations to come.
At eziFunerals, we help families across Australia understand the options available when selecting headstones, plaques, monuments, and memorials — with clarity, care, and respect.
What Is a Memorial or Headstone?
A memorial is any structure, plaque, or monument designed to commemorate a person who has passed away.
A headstone (also called a gravestone or tombstone) is a type of memorial placed at the head of a grave, usually engraved with the person’s name, dates, and an inscription.
Together, they serve as:
- A permanent tribute to a loved one’s life
- A place for family and friends to gather and reflect
- A historical record for future generations
Types of Memorials and Headstones
1. Headstones
- Traditional upright stone markers placed at the head of the grave
- Can be made from granite, marble, sandstone, or bronze
- Typically engraved with names, dates, and personal inscriptions
2. Grave Markers (Flat or Lawn Plaques)
- Flat plaques placed flush with the ground
- Common in lawn cemeteries
- Discreet, low-maintenance option
3. Full Monumental Memorials
- Includes headstone, full grave cover, kerbing, and base
- More elaborate and personalised
4. Cremation Memorials
- Small plaques, niche walls, or garden memorials for cremated remains
- Often found in memorial parks and crematorium gardens
5. Mausoleums and Crypts
- Above-ground structures housing caskets or urns
- Can be private or shared (community mausoleums)
6. Natural or Eco Memorials
- Biodegradable markers
- Living memorials like trees or native plantings
- GPS coordinates instead of traditional markers
Common Materials for Headstones
- Granite – Durable, versatile, and available in many colours
- Marble – Elegant appearance, but weathers faster outdoors
- Bronze – Often used for plaques, long-lasting and low-maintenance
- Sandstone or Limestone – Traditional but softer and more susceptible to weathering
Tip: Always check with your cemetery about approved materials and memorial regulations before ordering.
Personalising a Memorial
Make your loved one’s tribute truly special by adding:
- Custom inscriptions (quotes, religious texts, poetry)
- Photos etched or ceramic portraits
- Religious symbols or cultural motifs
- Laser-engraved designs (flowers, landscapes, hobbies)
- Vases for flowers, candle holders, or built-in seating
Each element helps tell the story of a life well-lived.
How Much Does a Headstone or Memorial Cost in Australia?
Prices vary depending on material, size, design, and installation. As a general guide:
|
Type |
Estimated Price Range |
|
Lawn plaque (basic) |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
|
Upright granite headstone |
$3,000 – $7,000+ |
|
Full monument (headstone + grave surround) |
$8,000 – $20,000+ |
|
Bronze plaque for cremation memorial |
$1,000 – $2,500 |
Custom designs, inscriptions, cemetery fees, and installation costs may be additional.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Memorial
- Cemetery regulations (some limit monument styles and sizes)
- Long-term maintenance (some materials require more care)
- Cultural, religious, or personal preferences
- Budget and payment plans
- Future family memorial plans (e.g., adjoining plots)
It’s always a good idea to discuss your preferences early with your funeral director or cemetery manager.
How eziFunerals Can Help
We provide independent advice and connections to trusted memorial suppliers across Australia, helping you:
- Understand the types of headstones and memorials available
- Compare designs, materials, and prices
- Connect with local stonemasons, plaque designers, or memorial parks
- Plan a memorial that’s meaningful and respectful
- Include memorial wishes as part of your prepaid funeral plan
We are here to make a difficult choice easier — with no pressure and complete transparency.
Let’s Create a Lasting Tribute Together
Whether you’re planning ahead or honouring a recent loss, eziFunerals can guide you in choosing a memorial that reflects your loved one’s life and legacy.
Call: 1300 236 402
Email: support@ezifunerals.com.au
Visit: www.ezifunerals.com.au
