Available Financial Support Funeral Costs in Australia
Life's unpredictability sometimes brings the unexpected passing of a loved one, thrusting you into the challenging task of organising a funeral. The potential expenses can be daunting, especially when large sums of money are not readily available. Funera Sydney understands these challenges and offers guidance on financial assistance during this difficult time.
When faced with funeral expenses, consider the deceased’s bank account. While accounts in the sole name of the deceased get frozen upon notification of their passing, most banks can release funds for funeral expenses. Provide the funeral service provider's invoice to the bank for this purpose.
Delve into the deceased's documents to uncover any existing policies that could provide financial support:
Many families remain unaware of existing funeral insurance or prepaid funeral arrangements. If your loved one had such a policy, promptly contact the relevant company for a quick release of funds to cover funeral expenses.
Private health, sickness, accident, life, or disability insurance policies may offer financial support. Initiate contact with the responsible insurance company, acknowledging that these claims can take time.
Check your loved one's superannuation fund, often including life insurance. Contact the Super Fund to initiate a claim promptly.
The federal government provides bereavement payments through Centrelink for Australian residents:
If receiving a Partner Allowance and your spouse dies, you may be eligible for an additional 14 weeks of their pension.
Available to surviving partners of Pension Bonus Scheme members.
If providing additional daily care for the deceased, you may receive a further 14 weeks of pension.
Assisting with the costs of caring for orphans or children unable to be cared for by their parents.
Available in the case of a stillbirth.
Spouses, dependents, or carers of deceased individuals receiving a pension from the Department of Veterans Affairs may qualify for a one-off bereavement payment of up to $2,000.
Under specific circumstances, the law allows early access to superannuation, including for funeral expenses. Consult a financial planner before pursuing this option.
Some states offer assistance schemes for families unable to pay funeral costs. Specific requirements vary, so contact the relevant state body for details:
Apply for funeral assistance through the Queensland Magistrates Court or the Coroners Court of Queensland.
NSW provides destitute funerals administered by NSW Health for those unable to cover funeral costs.
Consider crowdfunding through platforms like My Cause or Go Fund Me to seek financial support for funeral costs.
If the death resulted from a crime or road accident, funeral expenses may be covered by the State's Victims of Crime Board or Transport Accident Commission.
Funera Sydney encourages families not to succumb to financial pressure for an expensive funeral service. Offering basic and affordable funeral arrangements, Funera Sydney believes in providing a respectful farewell that reflects the individual's life without burdening families with excessive financial stress.