If you have recently lost someone who was dear to you, then you will soon have to start considering what sort of funeral arrangements to make. Many people still like traditional burials in Australia but there is little doubt that cremations are becoming more and more popular. They are offered at all funeral homes that have their own crematoria facilities. Those that don't will still be suitable places to hold a service for the deceased and then the body can be transported to an approved crematorium for the disposal of the body afterward. Although both burials and cremations remain the norm in the country, more and more people are enquiring about direct cremations. What are they and what pros and cons do they offer?
What Is a Direct Cremation?
Also known as a basic cremation, direct cremation is the cheapest way that you can legally dispose of the body of someone who has died. You'll need to register the death, of course, but after that, all you need to do is to pay a firm of undertakers to take the deceased directly to a crematorium for you. There, it will be incinerated to the legally required standard and you can collect the ashes, if wanted, afterward. To keep the cost low, a simple coffin will be used. Sometimes, ones made of cardboard are adequate for the purpose.
The Benefits of Direct Cremations
If you want a low-cost funeral, then there is no better option in Australia today. Some people just don't want a fuss made of them after they've passed on so leave specific instructions for a direct cremation rather than more costly funeral services. If so, you'll be fulfilling their wishes by organising a more basic service. Some people prefer this sort of arrangement because they are in the throes of grief and organising a full service feels too much. Remember that you can always hire a funeral home after a direct cremation if you want to hold a memorial service down the line. Many people do so whether they're religious in nature or more secular, such as a celebration of life service.
The Downsides of Direct Cremations
Whether you book a funeral home or not, the rules on direct cremations are quite strict. You cannot have a traditional service so they'll be no eulogy, prayers, hymns or any other devotional elements. Indeed, no mourners will be expected to attend, either. This puts some people off because it seems as though the whole service will be impersonal. Remember, though, that Australian funeral homes can often be booked for a more traditional service while the other key aspect of the funeral, cremating the body, can be dealt with separately with a direct arrangement.
For more info, contact a local funeral home.
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