Funeral costs Melbourne, Victoria.

The funeral industry has historically been under scrutiny for lack of transparency when it comes to the cost of a funeral. This means when it’s time to plan a funeral, which is often distressing and emotionally fuelled, there is a great level of uncertainty for how much to pay and whether you’re stuck paying too much.

Keep reading to learn more about the average funeral costs in Melbourne and Victoria. 

How much do funerals cost in Melbourne, Victoria?

The average cost of a funeral in Melbourne is between $3,500 to $6,000, according to Gathered Here in 2022, and with extra transport costs can be higher in regional Victoria.

This average cost is based on all services, whether that’s a direct cremation, a memorial service, a burial or a full service funeral. Depending on what service you were after, these costs can vary significantly.

Also be mindful of any hidden costs or fees, which could include funeral director fees, after hours service, expensive coffins, vehicle hire and more.  

Funeral prices are expected to rise in the coming years with the rising cost of living and rate of inflation.

What is the average cost of a burial in Melbourne, Victoria?

According to Gathered Here, the average cost of a traditional burial in Melbourne is $5,347. While this price does include most standard services (standard coffin, transfer fee, celebrant, mortuary care, venue hire and death certificate), there are a number of services not included to consider, which can bring up the cost significantly. They are:

• Funeral flowers
• Catering
• Headstone
• Cemetery fees

Average cost of a coffin.

A funeral director may also attempt to upsell the coffin. A coffin or casket alone can cost anywhere from $600 for a simple coffin to $15,000 for a premium casket.

What is the average cost of a cremation in Melbourne, Victoria?

The average cost for a direct cremation in Melbourne is $3,534, and the average cost for a single-service cremation in Melbourne is $6,155, according to Gathered Here in 2022.

A single-service cremation involves an attended cremation, with an accompanying funeral service, which may involve a wake or some light refreshments. Like above, any flowers, catering or other extras.

In Melbourne, a Bare Cremation costs $2,599. A memorial service or funeral can also be added to your Bare arrangement, where one of our celebrants conducts a service separately from the cremation, for an additional but affordable fee. A memorial service with Bare including direct cremation costs $5,999, while a Bare Funeral with the coffin present costs $6,799.

Head here to learn more about Bare funeral and cremation services.

A memorial differs from a single-service cremation, as it can be held days, weeks or months after the cremation, not on the same day. This allows families to focus on their grieving, and allows time for people to travel to attend the memorial. It is also important to mention that choosing cremation does not mean you cannot have a traditional farewell. Families can still decide to have a more traditional service or ceremony where the coffin is present before the cremation takes place. At Bare, we can assist you in planning for either, and if you’re unsure about what’s right for you and your family our team are only ever a phone call away.

In Regional Victoria, a Bare Cremation ranges from $2,999 to $3,299, depending on location. This is due to increased transport costs to the regional areas. Please contact Bare on 1800 071 176 for funeral or memorial pricing in Regional Victoria. 

*Prices are correct as of February 2024. These prices are subject to change. 

Beating the rising cost of funerals by planning ahead.

It can be difficult to sift through countless funeral homes and directors in Melbourne to find an affordable service with impeccable service and everything you want and need for a loved one’s funeral, especially when grieving.

While it’s great to have some understanding of average funeral costs in Melbourne before you need those services, it’s even better to be prepared so your loved ones don’t have to go through the financial and emotional burden of planning your funeral. 

A Bare Prepaid Funeral is perfect for anyone wanting to be one step ahead and locking in today’s prices for a funeral, while ensuring their loved ones won’t have to worry as much when the time comes. 

Final thoughts on funeral costs Melbourne, Victoria. 

Managing funeral costs in Melbourne, Victoria, requires careful consideration of several factors. The expenses related to funerals can vary significantly, depending on choices such as the funeral home, selected services, and personal preferences. Families are advised to explore different options, compare pricing structures, and, if possible, consider pre-planning to alleviate financial stress.

At Bare, we understand that every individual and family's needs, preferences, and circumstances differ, and what might be suitable for one person may not be for another. Whether you are looking to organise a direct cremation, a memorial or funeral service, we would be honoured to support you. To find out more, visit our Bare website here, or call 1800 071 176.