How much does a Funeral Cost?
In this blog, we aim to answer the question “How much does a Funeral Cost?” as best we can.
Because every goodbye is different in its own way, the costs of a Funeral will vary depending on the elements included.
A larger service that is more intricate is likely to cost more, just as a smaller service that is less elaborate is likely to cost less.
That said, specific choices, such as burial or cremation for example, will also contribute significantly to the price of a funeral service, and it’s important to be aware of those before moving forward in the process.
Funeral costs and transparency
Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging time, and amidst the grief, there are practical matters that must be addressed.
One of the most significant considerations is the cost of arranging a funeral. Understanding the expenses involved can help families navigate this difficult period with clarity and foresight.
At Tobin Brothers Funerals, transparency is one of our highest priorities in our care for client families.
We are called upon by families at their most vulnerable times, and guiding them with compassion, transparency, and expertise is how we have earned the trust of families across Australia.
As a culture, we tend to avoid discussing the financial and administrative aspects of death and funerals, perhaps as it seems disrespectful or unimportant.
The reality is though, the financial costs and impact of a funeral are an important consideration for any person, ask anyone who has had to organise a funeral.
It is especially difficult to be in the position of making decisions that may have financial and emotional consequences, at a time that is emotionally charged and in many cases, completely unexpected.
That’s why Tobin Brothers is here to help you through the process and explain what you can expect when it comes to funeral costs.
What are the costs associated with a Funeral?
Professional Service Fees
Generally speaking, funeral service fees encompass the basic costs associated with arranging a funeral.
This includes services such as planning and coordination, preparation of the deceased, use of facilities for viewing or ceremonies, and transportation.
These fees can vary depending on the funeral home and the specific services chosen.
At Tobin Brothers funerals, our Professional Service fee incorporates the various tasks and services typically involved in arranging, planning and conducting a funeral.
Our Professional Service fee includes:
- Around the clock guidance, expertise, care and attention from a team of professionally trained staff.
- Service availability 24 hours a day, 265 days a year.
- Transfer of the deceased from the place of death into our care.
- Mortuary care by experienced and qualified embalming staff at one of our accredited mortuary facilities.
- Availability of our chapels/offices for the initial arrangement meeting, the viewing and/or vigil, for the service and refreshments.
- Placement of death and funeral notices in the newspapers and on our website.
- Registration of death with the Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages.
- Making arrangements with all third parties.
- All necessary staff and a hearse on the day of the funeral.
- Advice and support following the funeral.
What is not included in the Professional Service Fee?
- “After hours” – rosary or vigil prayers or viewing.
- Full embalming (required for overseas repatriation and other situations).
- Weekend or Public Holiday fees.
- Travel outside our usual operating area.
- Additional vehicles (Hearse included).
- Payment to third parties, which are called third party fees.
What other costs associated with a Funeral Service?
Coffins and Caskets
Choosing a coffin or casket is a deeply personal decision, and costs can vary significantly depending on the materials, design, and craftsmanship. From traditional wooden coffins to eco-friendly options, there is a wide range of choices available to suit different preferences and budgets.
Burial or Cremation
The choice between burial and cremation is a significant factor in determining overall funeral costs. Burial expenses may include the purchase of a burial plot, grave digging fees, and the cost of a headstone or monument. Alternatively, cremation costs typically include cremation fees, urns, and optional services such as ash scattering or interment.
Additional Services
Additional services such as floral arrangements, catering, and memorial stationery can also contribute to the overall cost of a funeral. These optional extras allow families to personalise the service and create a meaningful tribute to their loved one.
This list may include, but certainly isn’t limited to:
- Venue fees
- Clergy or Celebrant
- Singers or Musicians
- Cemetery Fees
- Crematorium
- Catering
- Memories and Tributes
- Press Notices
- Coffin/Casket
- Death Certificates
- and more.
Government Fees and Legal Requirements
In addition to the expenses incurred through the funeral home, there may be government fees and legal requirements that need to be addressed. These can include death certificate fees, permits for burial or cremation, and any necessary paperwork for estate administration.
This also includes the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is compulsory in Australia.
GST is payable on all Tobin Brothers fees and the supply of all related products and services except where indicated. The exact amount of GST is calculated when all costs associated with the funeral are finalised.
Memorialisation
Headstones, plaques, urns, statues, and trees are just some of the physical items you can choose to honour the memory of your loved one. Depending on what you select, and any production or maintenance fees, will determine the costs associated with memorialisation.
Planning Ahead
While discussing funeral costs may be uncomfortable, planning ahead can alleviate financial stress for your loved ones in the future. Many funeral homes offer pre-paid funeral plans or funeral insurance policies, allowing individuals to secure services at today’s prices and provide peace of mind for their families.
We cannot stress enough the importance of having a prepaid funeral in order to save your family the burden of this task. Many people who have had to arrange a funeral for a loved one, later opt for a Fixed Price Funeral Plan for themselves to prevent others from having to be in the same position.
Find out more about Fixed Price Funeral Plans or call our Funeral Advice Line to speak to one of our friendly staff.
Taking care of yourself financially
While arranging a funeral is undoubtedly an emotionally charged undertaking, there is no reason to put yourself in financial burden.
We encourage families to be clear about their budget and to make sure they are confident in their understanding of pricing and inclusions before committing to anything so there is no undue stress throughout the process.
Being upfront about your budget enables your funeral planner to provide more options appropriate to your circumstances. Our team are there to make the process easier for you, they benefit in no way should you choose the most expensive coffin, or the least, their job is only to help families farewell their loved one.
These days, there are some very cost effective solutions available to families, however, these are generally cremation-only and come with minimal face-to-face service or options.
Tobin Brothers has the esteem and reputation that often prompts people to assume a higher cost to be involved, but in fact, at the time of writing, (July 2025), we don’t even make the top 5 in terms of pricing.
One reason for this is the size and capability as a company, another is our refusal to pass all costs on to families. Of course, we still must operate and there are substantial costs involved in running a business of our size, but as a family owned and operated business, our main goal is to serve families in Victoria and Southern NSW. Profit is not a priority for us.
Memory Maker
The Memory Maker app is exclusive to Tobin Brothers and is designed to put the planning process in your hands.
Download it today to get started.
Want to know more about Funeral Costs?
Navigating the cost of dying is a challenging but necessary aspect of funeral planning. By understanding the various expenses involved and exploring options for financial preparation, families can ensure that their loved ones receive a dignified farewell without undue financial burden.
At Tobin Brothers, we are committed to providing compassionate support and transparent pricing to assist families during this difficult time. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions that honour the memory of your loved one.
For more information about our services and pricing, please contact us today.
Nick Fogarty
General Manager, Tobin Brothers Funerals
Want an accurate estimate of Funeral Costs?
Find out more about Funeral Costs and get a free Funeral Fee Proposal on our Funeral Costs Page.
