At eziFunerals, we’re dedicated to keeping Australian families informed about the funeral industry, offering transparency and choice through our online platform. As Australia’s leading independent funeral marketplace, we often get asked about the plans of major players like the Walker Funeral Group.
Unlike its corporate counterpart InvoCare, the Walker Funeral Group is a family-owned network of funeral homes with a rich history and a growing presence. So, what’s on the horizon for them in 2025? Here’s our take based on industry trends, their trajectory, and what it means for you.
A Legacy of Family Values
The Walker Funeral Group, founded by David and Melissa Walker in 1996 with the purchase of Bernard Laverty Funerals, has deep roots in the industry. David, a third-generation funeral director, and Melissa, a former teacher and trained florist, have built a network that includes respected names like Albert & Meyer Funerals, James Murray Funerals, and Joseph Medcalf Funerals. Operating primarily in New South Wales, their focus on traditional values and community connection sets them apart from larger, shareholder-driven firms.
As we look to 2025, the Walker Funeral Group appears poised to maintain its family-centric ethos while adapting to a changing market. Unlike InvoCare, which is now owned by U.S.-based TPG Capital, the Walkers remain proudly Australian-owned—a point of pride that resonates with families searching “Australian-owned funeral homes” or “independent funeral directors NSW.”
Expansion and Modernization on the Cards
While the Walker Funeral Group hasn’t released an official roadmap for 2025, their past growth offers clues. Since acquiring their first Sydney business in 2002 (Albert & Meyer), they’ve steadily expanded by purchasing long-established funeral homes, some dating back to the 1880s. Industry whispers suggest they’re eyeing further acquisitions in 2025, potentially in regional NSW or beyond, to deepen their footprint without overextending their family-run model.
Modernization is also likely on the agenda. The funeral industry is evolving, with families increasingly seeking digital tools and personalized services. At eziFunerals, we’ve seen this firsthand—our platform thrives because it meets these needs. The Walkers could follow suit, enhancing their online presence or introducing live-streaming capabilities at their chapels, much like competitors have done. Searches for “funeral live streaming NSW” or “Walker Funerals online services” might soon yield more results as they adapt to tech-savvy consumers.
A Focus on Community and Sustainability
One of the Walker Funeral Group’s strengths is its community ties. David and Melissa emphasize caring for staff, suppliers, and families—a philosophy that could shine in 2025. With sustainability gaining traction, we predict they might introduce eco-friendly options like biodegradable urns or carbon-neutral services. This aligns with growing interest in “green funerals Australia,” a niche eziFunerals proudly supports through our independent partners.
Their lack of ownership in cemeteries or crematoriums (unlike InvoCare) might also prompt strategic partnerships in 2025. Their proximity to Macquarie Park Cemetery hints at existing relationships—could we see formalized collaborations to offer seamless burial and memorial packages? Families searching “Walker Funerals burial options” might find new offerings as a result.
How This Compares to eziFunerals’ Vision
At eziFunerals, we’re not here to compete with groups like Walker—we’re here to complement them. While the Walker Funeral Group expands its network and refines its services, we’ll continue connecting families with independent directors, including those outside corporate umbrellas.
Their growth could elevate industry standards, but our platform ensures you’re not locked into one provider’s ecosystem. Search “eziFunerals vs Walker Funerals” to see how we prioritize choice over consolidation.
What It Means for You in 2025
If the Walker Funeral Group’s plans unfold as expected, families in NSW and beyond could benefit from more accessible, modern, and community-focused funeral services. Their Australian ownership might appeal to those wary of foreign conglomerates, while potential innovations could cater to diverse needs. But at eziFunerals, we’ll keep advocating for affordability and independence—values the Walkers share, yet execute differently.
What’s planned for the Walker Funeral Group in 2025? Likely a blend of growth, tech upgrades, and a steadfast commitment to their roots. As the year progresses, we’ll keep you updated, ensuring you have all the tools to plan a farewell that’s right for you.
Curious about your options? Visit eziFunerals to explore independent funeral directors near you or search “Walker Funeral Group 2025 plans” for the latest updates.
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.
