Planning a Cremation: Your Questions Answered
Losing a loved one is difficult. On top of grief, you may have many questions about cremation services. This article provides answers to common cremation FAQs to guide you through the process.
Why Choose Cremation?
- Secularisation - Less emphasis on religious traditions surrounding death.
- Mobility - Ashes can be buried, scattered, or kept in an urn allowing flexibility.
- Affordability - Cremations cost significantly less than burials.
- Sustainability - Cremation has a lower carbon footprint than burial.
What Happens When Someone Passes Away?
- At home - Call the funeral provider immediately for collection.
- Hospital/aged care - Staff will contact the funeral provider directly.
- If Coroner is involved - Collection may take over a week.
Overview of the Cremation Process
- Transportation to crematorium in a simple coffin.
- Strict ID procedures are followed throughout.
- Cremation chamber reaches 800-1000°C.
- Takes 2 hours to cremate, 3 hours total.
- Ashes placed in selected urn.
Getting the Death Certificate
- Funeral provider mails death certificate and certified copies within 2-3 weeks.
- Delays can occur due to state processing times.
What Happens to the Ashes?
- Interred in cemetery memorial.
- Kept at home in urn.
- Scattered in a meaningful place if permitted.
- Unclaimed ashes may be interred by crematorium after 12 months.
- Ashes can be divided and shared between family.
Unique Memorial Ideas
- Backyard BBQ gathering
- Ashes scattering ceremony
- Living memorial tree planting
- Ashes released into sea/lake
- Urn displayed at home
Prepaying Your Cremation
Prepaying removes stress on loved ones later.
No hidden fees.
Frequently Asked Cremation Questions
Q: What should I do first when someone dies? A: Call the funeral provider right away. They are available 24/7.
Q: How are ashes returned? A: Collection, delivery, or registered mail based on preference.
Q: How can I be sure I get the correct ashes? A: Strict ID protocols are followed throughout cremation process.
Planning a cremation can be challenging. We hope this overview of what to expect provides clarity during this difficult time.