Questions often asked about Cremations

Is a cremation dearer than a burial?

Generally cremation is cheaper than a burial but it depends where the nearest crematorium is, if you live in the country a local burial will probably be cheaper.

How many people use cremation today in Australia?

There are approximately 125,000 deaths each year in Australia and around 65,000 cremations take place. The overall average for Australia is just over 50% but in areas where cremation facilities are more available the rate approaches 70%

Are there any religious groups which forbid cremation?

Yes. It's forbidden by Orthodox Jews, most Orthodox faiths, Moslems and some other religions. However, most Christian denominations including the Roman Catholic Church allow cremation. It is the normal method of Sikhs, Hindus, Parsees and Buddhists.

Must there be any religious service with cremations?

No. A civil ceremony can be conducted or there may be none at all. On occasions a memorial service is conducted away from the crematorium.

Can I keep the cremated remains if I want, or must I dispose of them?

In most instances disposal of cremated remains is the responsibility of the administrators of the estate. They may keep the cremated remains if they wish or they may prefer a memorial, which provides a place where family and friends can pay their respects.

How can I ensure that I am cremated when I die?

Clear instructions in writing should be given to the person who will be responsible for your funeral when you die. These instructions are not binding in Law, unless written in your will, so you should ensure the person you instruct is someone who will carry out your wishes. The final decision rests with your executor.

What happens at the crematorium on the day of the funeral?

The coffin is brought into the chapel and placed on the catafalque (committal table) prior to the mourners entering and taking their seats. At a time appropriate during the service the coffin may be removed from view by closing curtains or activating a conveyance. At the end of the service the mourners leave the chapel and can inspect the floral arrangements before leaving.

What happens to the coffin after the service?

It is withdrawn into the committal room where the nameplate of the coffin is checked with the cremation order to ensure it is correct identity. The coffin is then identified with label giving all relevant information. This identification then stays with the coffin until the final disposal of the remains.

Does the cremation take place immediately?

Depending on the state laws, cremation will take place soon after the service.

What do you recommend to people about leaving items of jewellery on a body?

The best advice is that jewllery should be removed after death. Once the coffin has entered the crematorium grounds the coffin cannot be opened.

Preparation of the cremated remains has been mentioned, what does this entail?

When the cremation is complete, the remains are withdrawn from the cremator into a cooling tray. When cool, any metallic material is removed and the remains are placed into a machine which reduces them to a fine, white ash.

If I wanted to know more about cremation how should I go about it?

Please do not hesitate to contact your local crematorium office and the staff will answer your queries. If you wish, an inspection could be arranged

If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us on info@peterjjackson.com