Burial or cremation – things you need to know for your funeral service

Whether organizing a loved one’s funeral service or working on your own funeral plan, the decision to bury or cremate is ultimately a deeply personal one; and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are several options to suit your needs. 

It’s important to note when planning funeral services that there is no right nor wrong way to go about it. There are, however, a few factors that need to be considered when choosing between cremation or burial.

Cremation or burial

The major difference between a cremation or a burial is what happens with your loved one's body once they have died. Some people prefer to be laid to rest in the earth or buried with past generations of family in a local burial ground or mausoleum, while others wish to be cremated and have their remains scattered into the ocean, or beneath a beautiful tree. Cremated remains can also be interred in a local cemetery. 

For example, it can be incredibly beautiful to scatter both Mum and Dad’s ashes together into the ocean on a bright and sunny spring day, and it can be equally meaningful to bury an angel baby, born too soon, with her great grandmother and grandfather in the same grave. Certain religions prohibit cremation however. You may want to consider if the religion you follow permits cremation.

Costs

As the available space in cemeteries continues to be filled, especially in Sydney, the cost for burials has risen over the past few years. The average cost of funeral services in Sydney, including the burial plot and headstone is a little under $20,000. Cardboard coffins may prove to be economically viable for those on a tighter budget.

Cremation with a funeral service, on average, will cost less than half of what a burial would cost, which is more affordable for many. Cremation costs can be considerably less if you do not have a funeral service alongside it, nor attend the cremation. You can then create your own non traditional funeral or memorial service, Picaluna can help you with finding a funeral celebrant, and with finding unique funeral venues and catering for an outdoor memorial service or scattering ashes ceremony, for example.  

Natural burial and eco coffins

Traditionally, cremation has been looked upon as better for the environment. However, it is worth noting that cremation has a greater carbon footprint than burial, particularly if your loved one is not unnecessarily embalmed (which also reduces your funeral costs!). 

Either way, natural burial or cremation becomes kinder to the planet by choosing a cardboard coffin, biodegradable casket or natural shroud. Picaluna can help you find the best eco coffin in Australia to suit your family’s needs. 

The decision to opt for a burial service or a cremation service is a personal and intimate one; and it’s always worth considering your options by talking to family and friends, and your funeral services provider for assistance. Picaluna has the funeral director and the funeral celebrant to suit any need, traditional or non traditional.