What Is Cremation? How Cremation Works in Australia
What Is Cremation? How Cremation Works in Australia
Cremation is the process of reducing a human body to bone fragments through high-temperature combustion, typically between 870–980°C. The process takes 2–3 hours and produces approximately 1.5–3.5 kg of cremated remains, commonly called "ashes." In Australia, cremation is now the most common form of disposition, chosen by over 70% of families.
The Cremation Process Step by Step
- Authorisation — a cremation permit is issued by a medical referee or coroner. In Australia, two doctors must certify the cause of death before cremation can proceed.
- Identification — a metal identification disc accompanies the body throughout the entire process to ensure accurate identification of remains.
- Preparation — the body is placed in a cremation container (a coffin or cremation casket). Pacemakers and certain implants are removed as they can be hazardous at high temperatures.
- Cremation — the container is placed in the cremation chamber (retort) and heated to 870–980°C for approximately 2–3 hours.
- Processing — after cooling, remaining bone fragments are processed into a fine, uniform consistency — the "ashes."
- Return of ashes — ashes are placed in a temporary container and returned to the family, typically within 3–7 business days.
What Happens to Ashes After Cremation?
Families in Australia have several options for cremated remains:
- Keep ashes at home in a cremation urn
- Inter ashes in a cemetery niche or columbarium
- Scatter ashes at sea, in a park, or at a meaningful location
- Bury ashes in a garden or dedicated pet/memorial garden
- Divide ashes among family members using keepsake urns
- Incorporate ashes into memorial jewellery
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does cremation cost in Australia?
Cremation costs in Australia vary by state and provider. A direct cremation (without a funeral service) typically costs $1,500–$3,500. A cremation with a funeral service ranges from $4,000–$10,000+. Costs vary significantly between metropolitan and regional areas and between providers.
How long does cremation take in Australia?
The cremation process itself takes approximately 2–3 hours. From the time of death, the full process — including paperwork, authorisation, and return of ashes — typically takes 5–10 business days, though this varies by provider and state.
Are the ashes really the person's ashes?
Yes. Australian crematoriums are required to maintain strict identification protocols throughout the process. A metal identification disc accompanies the body and remains at all times. Reputable crematoriums cremate one person at a time to ensure the ashes returned are solely those of your loved one.
Can you have a funeral before cremation in Australia?
Yes. A funeral service can be held before cremation (with the body present), after cremation (with the urn present), or both. Many families hold a viewing or service before cremation, then a separate memorial gathering after the ashes are returned.
What is the difference between cremation and burial in Australia?
Burial involves interring the body in the ground in a coffin, typically in a cemetery. Cremation reduces the body to ashes through heat. Cremation is generally less expensive, more flexible in terms of memorialisation options, and has a lower environmental footprint than traditional burial. Over 70% of Australians now choose cremation.
Can I witness the cremation in Australia?
Yes. Many Australian crematoriums offer witness cremation services, where family members can be present when the coffin enters the cremation chamber. This is particularly common in some cultural and religious traditions. Contact your crematorium directly to arrange this.