Reliable information can make difficult practical decisions a little clearer. Use this guide as a starting point, and confirm details with the relevant professionals and official bodies.
Inside this guide
Record the person’s preferences
Write down whether the person preferred cremation or burial, a religious or non-religious gathering, a particular location, and whom they wished to involve. A document is useful only if trusted people can locate it. If you are planning your own arrangements, revisit the information when circumstances change and make sure the appropriate people know it exists.
Choose the type of farewell
Consider a funeral with the coffin present, direct cremation, a memorial after cremation, a family-led gathering or a graveside ceremony. Note accessibility, anticipated guests and any spiritual requirements. Separate the decisions that are essential from those you can adapt if timing or costs change.
Gather documents and trusted contacts
Locate any prepaid contracts, insurance information, funeral wishes, important contacts and estate documents. The exact legal permissions depend on circumstances. Avoid posting medical or identity documents to an unknown comparison website; send sensitive materials only to authorised institutions that require them.
Build a complete budget
Record professional fees, collection and transport, mortuary care, coffin, permits, certificates, ceremony, celebrant, cremation or burial, cemetery expenses, memorialisation and any catering or extras. Mark each amount as confirmed or estimated. Add GST where relevant and separate provider charges from third-party costs. Keep original written quotations.
Assign practical tasks
Ask who will contact funeral directors, communicate with extended family, handle venue arrangements, organise photos or readings, maintain receipts and liaise with any religious leader. Avoid one person carrying every administrative burden. Confirm who has authority to sign contracts or authorise payments.
Plan the weeks after the service
There may be additional work concerning ashes, memorial arrangements, estate notifications, insurance, accounts and support for loved ones. Save contact details and receipts together. You can adapt parts of the plan as necessary; there is no single correct emotional or organisational timetable.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do before asking for quotes?
Write a consistent short brief of wishes, location, timing and the type of service.
Should I prepare a budget?
Yes. Separate verified quotations from estimates and optional costs.
Can a ceremony be family-led?
Families can discuss suitable venues and arrangements with the providers and relevant authorities.
Original sources
NSW guide to arranging a funeral ↗NSW Government initial steps ↗Editorial information reviewed October 2026. General guidance only — obtain specific legal, financial or professional advice where needed.
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