Many families ask us if they can spend time with their loved one before the funeral service. Although this is a very personal decision and can feel quite confronting, it can be very important to help with the grieving process.

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What is a viewing?

A ‘viewing’ is the word we use to describe seeing the person who has died and spending one last time with them at some time before the funeral. This usually happens at the funeral home but it can be held at your home if you wish. A viewing is a special time for family and friends to pay their respects to their loved one who is present, dressed for service and presented in their coffin.

A viewing is usually a private affair, with family and selected friends who attend. A viewing can be just for you; even if several people are there at the time. If you want some one-on-one time you just need to ask your funeral director for some quiet time alone.

Basic features of a viewing

The body is on display in a coffin
The coffin may be open or closed
Takes place at the funeral home, place of worship, your home, a church or at a different venue.
Takes place before the funeral and burial or cremation
May be family-only or open to the public

Should children attend a viewing?

Sometimes adults are uncertain if children should attend. Our experience tells us that children often cope much better than we expect. They too need to say their goodbyes. Children often like to be able to write a letter or a draw a picture to place in the coffin. Children need to have a clear explanation about what they will see and how the viewing will take place to help them understand what’s going to happen.

Does the body need to be embalmed?

There is no requirement that the body needs to be embalmed. Be aware that some funeral homes may specify that the body be embalmed if a viewing is to take place. This is an additional cost. If you do not want the body to be embalmed, consider finding a funeral home that does not require embalming in the event of a viewing.

Do funeral homes charge more for a viewing?

If you are planning a viewing funeral home, the funeral home may charge you for use of the facility and room setup or decoration, as well as the time of any funeral home staff who may be helping. Some funeral homes will charge by the day while others will charge by the hour. If you are planning a viewing at a location other than the funeral home, the funeral home may charge you for setup and transportation services. So it pays to shop around and compare fees charged by funeral homes in your area.

About eziFunerals

eziFunerals supports individuals and families cope with end of life decisions, death and funerals. We are an independent, Australian-owned and operated company, and are not a subsidiary of any other corporation. We are not part of any other funeral company.

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Peter Erceg

Peter Erceg is the Founder and Owner of eziFunerals — Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority. With more than 40 years of experience in government and public health, Peter has become one of the country’s leading voices on funeral transparency, consumer rights, and ethical funeral practices. Through eziFunerals, Peter has built a national platform that empowers Australian families to make informed end-of-life decisions — free from pressure, commissions, and confusion. His goal is simple: "to help every Australian plan smarter, save money, and choose funeral services with confidence." 🕊 eziFunerals was founded by Peter in 2011, as an independent funeral comparison and planning platform that allows consumers to: • Compare local funeral directors and transparent quotes, • Understand real funeral costs across Australia, and • Connect with trusted, independent funeral homes that uphold the Fair Funeral Promise. As Australia’s Independent Funeral Planning Authority, eziFunerals is recognised by media, consumers, and funeral professionals for its leadership in price transparency and consumer protection. “We believe every family deserves a fair, dignified, and affordable farewell — without hidden fees or sales pressure.” 📘 Peter is the author of What Kind of Funeral: A Self-Help Guide to Planning a Meaningful Funeral, a practical guide that has helped thousands of Australians understand their options and avoid unnecessary costs. He regularly contributes articles and commentary on: • Funeral cost transparency and industry reform, • Prepaid funerals and consumer protection, • Emerging trends in eco-friendly and digital memorials, and • The role of AI and technology in end-of-life planning. 🎙 Peter and eziFunerals have been featured in major Australian media outlets including ABC News. His insights continue to shape the national conversation on funeral costs, consumer rights, and ethical practices in the funeral industry. ⚖️ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Peter Erceg are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of eziFunerals or its members. The information provided on this site is general in nature and should not be taken as personal, legal, or financial advice. Consumers are encouraged to conduct their own research and compare funeral services that best meet their needs and circumstances.

Viewing the Body Before the Funeral