Guiding you through the process
For many people, arranging a funeral is a complex and confusing task. Our team will step you through your choices, explain the decisions you need to make and ensure all the necessary arrangements are in place.
Who is responsible for arranging a funeral?
In most instances, the responsibility for arranging a funeral falls to the next of kin – the spouse, child, parent, legal partner or sibling. In those instances where there is a dispute and a Will exists, the arbiter of arrangements is deemed to be the Executor. The Executor may, in their discretion, appoint someone to make the necessary arrangements.
In those instances where the deceased does not have any known relatives, a relevant authority will be called upon to make the arrangements. This is usually done by a social worker or another authorised officer. At other times, the Public Trustee, Public Guardian or Protective Commissioner may become involved.
Who is responsible for paying for a funeral?
If you arrange a funeral you are responsible for ensuring payment of the expense, so it’s best to first check where the money will be coming from and whether there will be enough to cover the relevant expenses.
The total cost of a funeral will depend upon the type of service you choose.
For a full list of our Funeral Costs - Please Click Here
Arrangement meeting
Arranging a funeral can be daunting, so you need someone who has the knowledge, expertise and compassion to step you through the process. Our initial face-to-face meeting with you is called an ‘arrangement meeting’. This meeting can take place at our office, your home or a place of your choosing.
When we meet, one of our funeral consultants will guide you through your choices and help make decisions about both the practical and celebratory aspects of the funeral. A number of legal forms also need to be completed. This first meeting will generally last between one and two hours.
Some of the decisions that need to be made include:
- When and where the funeral will be held?
- Will there be a burial or cremation?
- Who will attend the service?
- Will there be a coffin or a casket?
- What vehicles will be required?
- What flowers are preferred?
- Is an Order of Service required?
- Who will give the eulogy?
- Will there be an after funeral gathering?
- What sort of memorialisation will there be?
At the arrangement meeting, we will record your choices and will provide you with a detailed estimate of the costs and disbursements for the funeral.