The cost of funerals in Australia has been increasing over the past few years, leading people to look for more cost-effective options when planning a funeral. According to the 2023 Australian Seniors Cost of Death report, the average cost of funerals has increased since 2019. In 2023, the estimated cost of a burial is $11,039, compared to $9,055 in 2019. Similarly, the estimated cost of cremations in 2019 was $6,334, but it has now increased to $8,045.

Due to the lack of transparency in the Australian funeral industry regarding costs, there is often a lot of uncertainty when it comes to planning for the expenses of a funeral. This article aims to help you navigate the process of planning a funeral by providing information on the average cost of funerals, the price difference between cremation and burial, and the associated costs.

How much do funerals cost in Australia?

Based on the government's Moneysmart website, private funerals generally range in cost from approximately $4,000 for a basic cremation to up to $15,000 for a more elaborate burial.

The cost of a funeral in Australia can vary significantly depending on whether it’s for a cremation or burial, the type of service required, how it’s personalised, and the location. For example, traditional funerals encompass various components, such as catering for a wake, flowers, newspaper advertising, celebrant fees, and funeral director service charges, which contribute to the overall cost. Alternatively, an unattended cremation is typically more cost-efficient, as it includes fewer services and associated expenses.

What is the average cost of a cremation vs burial?

The average cost of a burial tends to be far more expensive than a cremation due to the land required and other additional burial expenses. According to the 2023 Australian Seniors Cost of Death report, burials were estimated to cost $11,039. Traditional burials are more expensive than cremations due to costs associated with cemetery plots, opening and closing of graves, purchasing caskets, and installing headstones.

On the other hand, the average cost of a cremation in Australia in general is approximately $8,045 based on the 2023 Australian Seniors Cost of Death report. The cost of a cremation can vary greatly depending on the state or territory and if it is a simple direct cremation or a cremation with service.

It's important to note that cremation costs can be significantly different in regional and rural areas compared to metropolitan areas. This price difference is primarily due to different operating and transport costs. When obtaining quotes, always specify your location to ensure you receive accurate pricing for your area. 

In Sydney and Melbourne specifically, direct cremation prices typically range from $2,200 to $6,000, while traditional cremations with a full service generally cost between $5,000 and $10,000. These price ranges vary based on the provider, location, and what's included in each package such as a single-service or dual-service option.

What is a single-service cremation?

A single-service cremation involves a ceremony at only one location—typically at a church, chapel, or crematorium—before the cremation takes place. The service is held with the coffin present, allowing family and friends to gather and pay their respects in one venue.

This option is generally more affordable than a dual-service cremation because it requires only one venue and one set of arrangements. Single-service cremations are what providers like Bare offer as part of their attended cremation packages.

What is a dual-service cremation?

A dual-service cremation involves two separate ceremonies: the first service takes place at a venue chosen by the family, such as a chapel or church, allowing friends and relatives to gather and pay their respects. The second service, known as the committal, happens at the crematorium where the cremation is carried out.

According to Gathered Here, the average cost of a dual-service cremation is approximately $6,340. This option is more expensive than a single-service cremation due to the additional venue, staffing, and coordination required. This difference is even more noticeable when compared with direct cremation which has no service or ceremony and therefore sits at a much lower cost.

What is the average cost of a direct cremation?

A direct cremation is a cremation without a formal funeral service that typically includes all the essential aspects of cremation. According to the data from Gathered Here, the average cost of a direct cremation nationwide is $3,513. In contrast, the average national price of an immediate-need cremation with Bare as of October 2025 is $3,208*. By focusing on providing only the essential elements of a funeral, Bare helps Australian families save thousands of dollars. Additionally, you can take advantage of even more savings by prepaying for a Bare cremation, which also eliminates the worry of future price increases. Prepaying for a funeral also relieves your family of any future stress.

Aside from Bare Cremation, Bare also offers the family the option to have a service or ceremony prior or after the cremation for an additional yet affordable fee.

Head here to learn more about Bare Funerals.

What are the expected costs of a funeral?

Let’s look into the common costs associated with funerals, keeping in mind that expenses vary depending on whether it involves a burial or cremation. According to Finder, funerals in Australia generally range from $4,000 to $15,000. A direct cremation is at the lower end, while cremations with a service and most burials fall between about $6,600 and $7,500. These costs usually include essentials such as transfer, a coffin, and the necessary certificates, though they do not cover the price of a burial plot.

Families may also choose to add extras, such as:

• Venue hire for attended ceremony – varies by location and provider
• Cemetery or crematorium chapel
• Private viewing of the deceased – varies by provider
• Family limousine – $490
• Funeral flowers – $270
• Orders of service – $200
• Memorial book – $110
• Thank you cards – $80
• Newspaper or online notice – $310
• Embalming – $650
• Temporary grave marker – $190

What other optional extras affect funeral costs?

Beyond the basic package, families often choose to personalise the funeral by upgrading included items or adding optional extras. Listing these options with clear pricing gives families clarity about where costs come from:

Coffins: Upgrading from a basic coffin to a more decorative or eco-friendly option affects the overall price.

Celebrants: Professional celebrants charge fees that vary based on their experience and the level of personalisation required.

Keepsakes: Memorial items such as jewellery, photo frames, or tribute videos can be added at extra cost.

Some premium funeral items or choosing a particular celebrant can significantly change timing, staffing, and venue requirements, which in turn affects the total cost. Always ask your provider for specific pricing on any personalisation options you're considering.

What about urns and ashes?

Funeral directors generally return the ashes in a standard sealed container supplied by the crematorium. This is typically a basic urn made of PVC, though materials and dimensions can vary by state and is often already included in the funeral director's package.

While a basic urn is typically included, families may wish to upgrade to a more decorative or meaningful option. If you'd like a more personalised or decorative urn, these are usually available at an additional cost. Urn prices vary widely depending on the material, design, and personalisation options you choose. At Bare, families can choose from a range of urns with the help of their arranger or through their online dashboard.

What to look for when comparing funeral providers

When comparing funeral providers, look for fixed-price cremation packages that clearly outline what's included. Fixed pricing helps you immediately see what's actually covered in the base cost, making it easier to compare different providers and understand exactly what you're paying for.

Typical inclusions in a fixed-price direct cremation package are:

• Transfer of the deceased
• Paperwork and death certificates
• Cremation fees
• A simple coffin
• Return of ashes

This transparency eliminates surprise costs and allows you to make an informed decision that aligns with your budget and needs.

Request quotes for both direct and attended options. From what many families experience, they often start with one option in mind, but once all options are shown with clear pricing and guidance on what each one means, they're able to make a choice that feels right. Requesting quotes for both direct cremation and attended ceremony options helps families compare not just cost, but what feels most appropriate for their circumstances.

Ask for an itemised cost breakdown. Request a detailed, line-by-line breakdown of all costs from each funeral provider you're considering. Clear quotes and detailed line items reduce confusion, as families often assume all cremation packages include the same elements when it actually varies significantly between providers. An itemised breakdown helps you see exactly what you're paying for and makes it easier to compare offerings.

Some providers include death certificates and a standard urn in their base package, while others list them separately. Additional items such as a doctor's fee for medical certification, a shroud (if preferred over a coffin), and upgraded urns may also be available at extra cost. Always ask for a detailed breakdown to understand which items are included and which will be charged separately.

How can I save money on funeral costs?

Australians spend heaps on funerals. Primarily, it’s not because they choose elaborate funeral services, but rather because there hasn’t been a more affordable option available. The Australian Seniors Cost of Death Report highlights how around 33% of seniors suffered financial hardship as a result of paying for a funeral. This indicates that for many, the cost of dying is simply too high. Here are a few suggestions to cut down on funeral expenses:

• Choose cremation over burial. Choose cremation as it eliminates the expenses associated with a costly casket, vault, and cemetery plot. Many families who choose a direct cremation later arrange their own celebration of life or memorial gathering at a time and place that suits them. This can be held at home, in a park, or at any meaningful location. Some families may decide to have a friend or family member officiate the service instead of hiring a professional celebrant, which can further reduce costs while adding a personal touch.
• Shop around and compare prices. Gather quotes from various funeral homes in order to compare the costs. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your budget.
• Consider preplanning and prepayment. Plan ahead as it enables you to make thoughtful decisions and avoid making impulsive, emotionally-driven purchases. Additionally, prepayment can help secure current prices and provide protection against potential future cost increases.
• Choose a basic or eco-friendly coffin. Instead of opting for an extravagant expensive coffin, consider opting for a basic wooden or cardboard one. Additionally, there are eco-friendly alternatives that may be more affordable and have a lesser impact on the environment.
• Opt for a simple arrangement. Choose a simple and straightforward funeral service without any unnecessary extras. By minimising the use of expensive funeral vehicles and extravagant floral arrangements, you can reduce the funeral expenses.
• Consider a family-led ceremony. Families can choose to hold their own simple ceremony after the cremation instead of a full provider-led service. This can help reduce costs, since there's no need to pay for a venue, staff, or other service fees. It also gives families the freedom to personalise the farewell, include meaningful rituals, and have the ceremony at a time and place that feels right for them. According to Cemeteries & Crematoria NSW, some families opt for a mix of DIY and professional funeral services, which can help reduce the overall cost while providing a more personalised funeral and closer sense of involvement. For more guidance, visit our DIY funeral planning guide.

Final thoughts on the funeral costs in Australia

The choice between burial and cremation plays a crucial role in costs associated with funerals in Australia. Traditional funerals hold a significant place in honouring and remembering loved ones, as they are deeply rooted in family and religious customs for many individuals. However, there is now an increasing trend among Australians to explore alternative funeral options that may be more affordable. At Bare, we understand the importance of creating a respectful farewell that fits within your budget, we offer both Bare Cremation and Bare Funerals that you can select from depending on your preferences.

While managing the costs of a funeral is important, it's also important to remember that the love for your loved one isn't determined by how much money you spend on their funeral. Whether you choose a simpler approach or a more elaborate ceremony, the focus should be on honouring the person who has passed away in a meaningful way.

Our dedicated team is here to help you with compassion throughout the entire process, whether you are looking into arranging a simple cremation, a cremation with service, or pre-planning for yourself. If you're unsure about what's best for you and your family, our team are only a phone call away and would be honoured to assist you. To find out more, or get a free quote for an imminent or prepaid Bare Cremation, visit Bare website or call us anytime on 1800 071 176.

‍*This is the national average price of a Bare at-need cremation, correct as at October 2025. Please note that prices vary depending on location. If opting for prepaid, prices also vary depending on the payment frequency and are subject to increase over time. For an accurate quote and cost breakdown for your location, please follow this link.

Disclaimer: This article and all information and pricing within it was accurate at the time of writing. Please see bare.com.au or linked sources for current pricing. This article provides general information only and does not constitute professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for guidance specific to your situation.