How Much Does a Cremation Cost in Melbourne?
A direct cremation from most other funeral director services in Melbourne typically costs between $1,900–$4,000. Some even charge more. A cremation with an attended service and full funeral is even more expensive, still.
However, at Cheap Cremations Melbourne, we offer dignified, direct cremation in Melbourne for a fixed fee of $1,999 including GST. Please contact us on (03) 9982 1182 to find out more.
Cremation Costs in Melbourne at a Glance
If you are considering cremation over a natural burial, here is a brief overview of what it might cost compared with other funeral fees.
| Type of arrangement | Typical price range | What is included |
|---|---|---|
| Direct/unattended cremation | Around $1,900–$4,000. Some providers charge up to $6,000 | Collection, mortuary care, simple coffin, paperwork, cremation and return of ashes |
| Cremation with viewing | $2,299 with us. Prices can vary elsewhere | Our basic package plus a one-hour chapel viewing |
| Attended cremation with chapel service | Around $5,000–$10,000 | Cremation and a funeral service. Confirm chapel and celebrant fees |
| Full funeral with burial | Around $8,000–$19,000+ | Funeral arrangements, coffin, service and cemetery costs. Check whether a headstone is included. |
Please note, these are guide prices only. Confirm all costs before deciding how you wish to proceed.
What Affects the Cost of a Cremation?
Cremation costs vary depending on several factors. Some of the most influential include the following:
Direct Cremation Cost: What You Get for $1,999
Our direct cremation package includes:
- Collection from the place of death.
- Basic mortuary care.
- A simple coffin.
- Death registration and a death certificate.
- A cremation certificate.
- The cremation fee.
- A single rose.
- Return of ashes.
Please note. This is for an unattended cremation service with no formal funeral. Your family can hold a separate memorial service later.
Funeral Costs in Melbourne: Cremation vs Burial
Burial services usually cost more because you need a burial plot. You also must pay for the grave to be prepared, while requesting a headstone can bring extra expense.
Overall, cremation avoids these costs if you keep or scatter the ashes. However, choosing a cemetery memorial for ashes will add to your funeral expenses.
Hidden Costs to Ask About
Before booking, ask us about:
We do not impose a weekend or public holiday collection surcharge. But an oversized coffin costs an additional $300 when required.
Optional Extras and What They Cost
Our optional extras include GST:
Chapel viewing
$300 for up to one hour
Decorative urns
$80–$300
Keepsake jewellery
$65
These are separate from the basic package. View our optional cremation add-ons page for more details.
Financial Help With Funeral Costs
Some partners and carers qualify for Centrelink bereavement payments. However, eligibility depends on your relationship to the deceased and the payments you receive. It’s best to check with Services Australia to find out what applies to you.
It is also worth checking whether you have any existing funeral cover or prepaid plans. Additionally, you may also use the early release of superannuation to pay for a dependant’s funeral, but this is subject to ATO approval.
How to Get an Itemised Quote
Under Victorian state law, funeral providers must provide their price lists and an itemised statement on request, before you agree to their services.
Make sure you ask for the total cost, including GST, and a list of anything excluded. To discuss a quote with our team, please contact us or call (03) 9982 1182.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to cremate someone in Victoria?
The price of a traditional cremation depends largely on your location, the provider and what services you choose. Our bare cremation package with an unattended service costs $1,999 including GST. However, a cremation with an attended funeral service costs more because it requires extra arrangements.
What is the most expensive part of a funeral?
For a burial, the burial plot can be one of the highest costs, while preparing the grave and adding a headstone can increase the bill. If you are considering cremation funerals, then the funeral director’s fees, coffin choice and service arrangements can make up much of the total.
What is the least expensive way to be cremated?
An unattended or direct cremation is generally the most affordable funeral option. As there is no formal funeral service, you avoid chapel hire, celebrant fees and catering. Many families choose a simple coffin and later arrange a gathering at home.
Does Centrelink help with funeral or cremation costs?
Centrelink may offer bereavement payments to eligible partners and carers. However, it does not automatically pay everyone’s funeral bill. The financial assistance available depends on your circumstances, so contact Services Australia to find out what you might be eligible for.
Is direct cremation cheaper than a funeral?
Yes, direct cremation generally costs less than a traditional funeral with an attended service. That’s because you avoid expenses such as venue hire, celebrant fees and catering. Rest assured, your loved one still receives care and the utmost respect throughout the cremation process. Your family can also hold a separate farewell when you are ready.