More Australians are considering direct cremation to memorialise themselves or their loved ones and for a good reason. In one study conducted about funeral arrangements done in various metropolitan areas in Australia, it was found that around 70% of them are cremations that involve no ceremony.
In this article, we will take a good look at the process for direct cremation and its’ cost. Only then can you decide whether its’ the right end-of-life option for you and your family.
What happens during a direct cremation?
The process of cremation services in Australia starts by transporting the body to the designated crematorium. The funeral staff then undertakes the usual procedure for preparing the body of a loved one for cremation. This includes the extraction of any metallic items from the body such as jewellery, braces and piercings. Once done, the body is then put in a coffin and cremated.
The entire length of a direct cremation service can take up to 2 hours depending on the mass of the body and bone density. Cremation facilities typically use propane or natural gas. Once finished, the ashes and any remaining bone fragments are collected and refined into smooth granular substance. The latter is then stored into a special container (typically an urn) and offered to bereaved family members.
How much can you expect to pay for direct cremation?
Funeral arrangements have become very expensive over the years due to the inflation cost of burial plots and other expenses necessary for a traditional funeral ceremony. On average, Australians spend around $4000 to $15,000 on funeral arrangements, according to ASIC (Australian Securities & Investments Commission).
Dirct cremation, on the other hand (no burial plot and funeral services), cost around $1500 to $2900. This makes the latter a more affordable and cost-effective alternative to traditional funeral arrangements.
Other benefits of direct cremation
Aside from leaving more money in the hands of bereaved families, direct cremation has other benefits as well that are worth considering. For one thing, cremations are more eco-friendly compared to traditional funerals that carry a bigger carbon footprint. Burial plots require recurring maintenance which can end up producing more carbon over the long term.
h direct cremation, no land has to be set aside to memorialise loved ones. Thus cremations are are an essential part of land conservation efforts in the country. Bereaved families can keep the ashes close by keeping it at home or spreading them on top of a mountain or over the sea. This would depend on the wishes of the departed.
Another benefit of a direct cremation is that it eliminates the stress of having to work with a limited timetable. The passing of a loved one is overwhelming enough for families, and the difficulties of finding a schedule that works for everyone isn’t going to help. Families can have the cremation now and have all the time to juggle schedules later. This includes arranging reservations for a venue, getting a memorial urn and coordinating with family and friends from out of town.
