Are there other ways of paying for my funeral?

Other than a pre-paid funeral, money to pay for your funeral could come from your superannuation (pension) fund, savings account, or a funeral bond.

•  Superannuation / pension fund – most superannuation funds have a death benefit which is payable to a nominated person(s) or a beneficiary when you die. It is wise to ensure that you keep your nominee information up to date in your super account(s) as this can cause delays at an already stressful time. In some circumstances you may be able to claim your super early (e.g. if you have a terminal illness)
•  Savings account – you can make regular payments into a high interest savings account and this can be accessed when required
•  Funeral bond – you can pay regular amounts over time which accumulate with interest and so your fund grows. These are not widely advertised so you will have to search for providers.

I don’t have any money – how will my loved ones pay for my funeral?

If your estate does not have enough funds to cover the cost of your funeral, then it will be expected that your loved ones contribute to this cost. If your loved ones are unable to contribute, then local government authorities have a duty to provide what is known as a pauper’s funeral for you.

A pauper’s funeral or a government funded funeral is usually a direct cremation (or it can be a direct burial) and the remains are interred into a shared unmarked grave. There are no loved ones present or any other elements like flowers and a short service will take place. The location of the remains will be noted for public record.