There is more variety and freedom than ever in the choice of funeral and burial. From high church to secular and humanistic, with traditional interment, cremation or a ‘ natural ‘ burial-or even having the ashes of the deceased put in jewellery or blasted off in a fireworks display.

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The range of choices, however, ensures that the deceased and, if they have shared any clear desires, the ritual and/or their final resting place should be given careful thought.

Let’s explore five major types of funerals, so you can decide what’s right for you or your loved one when the time comes.

  • Traditional Religious Funeral Service – Prior to this service, the family often welcomes visitors. A visitation may also include a viewing of the body in the casket (except for Jewish funerals).
  • Non-religious Humanist Funeral Service – The main difference between a religious service and a humanist one is that the latter omits any reference to God or religion. Humanist funerals offer a dignified farewell to the deceased as well as a celebration of life.
  • Direct Cremation Service – With a direct cremation, there is no visitation, ceremony or service beforehand. However, a memorial service may be held at a later date.
  • Green/Natural Funeral Service – A green or natural funeral requires fewer resources than a traditional funeral, so it’s better for the environment. A green funeral avoids embalming chemicals; the extraneous cement, steel or other non-biodegradable materials that conventional burials put into the earth; and lacks the carbon footprint of cremation.
  • Burial at Sea – A burial at sea is a type of funeral in which the person who has passed is released into the ocean, usually from a boat but sometimes from an aircraft.

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Peter

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.