This can vary depending on the circumstances however it is advised to call Police in the first instance. If a person is elderly and death is expected then the local doctor and funeral director should be contacted as soon as possible.

It is widely accepted that a funeral service assists the living in saying goodbye to their loved one. It provides an opportunity to join together and comfort each other during a difficult time, at the same time honouring and commemorating the life of the deceased.

No. A funeral, considered traditional by most, does not need to occur. In some instances people may choose a simple cremation, perhaps followed by a quiet memorial service or life celebration gathering at a later time. There is no right or wrong when making these decisions, however, it is generally preferred to consider and if possible grant the wishes of the deceased.

This responsibility generally lies with the Executor of the Will, who is generally the Senior Next of Kin or an agreed family member. If no will has been made, authority will remain with the next of kin.

Usually there will be a clear understanding of whether a person wished to be cremated or buried.
However this is not always the case and many factors may influence this decision including availability of grave sites and burial costs which are generally higher. Grave sites in some Melbourne cemeteries may cost in excess of $20,000, as opposed to country cemeteries where costs may be significantly lower.

This is a highly personal decision and is often difficult to make. Many people are thankful to have the opportunity for some quiet time with their loved one and find this helps in their journey of grief. This can be further discussed at the funeral arrangement meeting.

A coffin is tapered in shape with a removable lid, whilst a casket is rectangular and straight sided with a hinged lid.

Funeral costs vary greatly depending on the wishes of the individual or next of kin.
The main costs encompass the Funeral Directors Service Fee, the coffin or casket and the cost of cremation or burial.

Services contributing and adding to the final quotation are flowers, clergy or celebrant fee, venue hire, catering costs, orders of service, musicians, newspaper notices, additional funeral vehicles and staff, death certificate, audio-visual equipment and possibly more.

This can vary greatly depending on the needs of the family and whether the deceased person has been transported to the Coroners Office, in which case the Coroner will determine when the deceased can be transferred to the care of the Funeral Director. In some cases, cultural or religious beliefs may dictate an immediate funeral. Generally a funeral will take place within three to seven days, during which time funeral arrangements can be made.

Usually the Funeral Director will arrange the flowers and other service requirements on your behalf, however this can be discussed between the Funeral Director and the family or individual at the funeral arrangement. Families may wish to organise their own flowers or other services associated with the funeral themselves.

This is always preferable to ensure that arrangements will be made according to your wishes and to assist your family later on at their time of grief.
Pre-paying your funeral will enable you to purchase your funeral at today’s prices. Arrangements will be documented in a contract and funeral requirements discussed in detail, greatly assisting your family both emotionally and financially with your money being invested with Australian Friendly Society who are owned by the Bendigo Bank..

Pre-paid grave plots and pre-paid funerals are exempt from the assets test, regardless of their value. However, we encourage you to seek professional financial advice.