Burial vs Cremation: How to Choose the Right Option
Burial vs cremation
Making end-of-life plans can be daunting, whether for yourself or a loved one. If no arrangements were made or wishes expressed, deciding between burial and cremation can be very hard. This decision is also important if you’re planning for yourself and unsure how you’d like to be remembered.
Many people have a clear preference, but if you're uncertain, the information below may help guide your choice. You’re always welcome to make an appointmentExternal site to discuss your options with our compassionate team.
Burial Options
Burial involves placing the deceased in a coffin, casket or shroud, and can take place either below ground or above ground.
Below-Ground Burial (Earth Graves)
Earth graves offer a range of memorial styles to suit personal preferences. Options include:
- A plaque set flush with the ground
- A traditional headstone
- A full monument covering the grave site
Choosing the right location is important, as it determines the type of memorial available.
Explore burial optionsExternal site
Above-Ground Burial (Mausoleum Crypts)
Mausoleums provide elegant, above-ground interment in indoor or outdoor settings. Crypts can be designed for individuals or couples and are finished in marble or granite.
Visiting Our Cemeteries
We encourage you to visit our cemeteries to explore burial styles and locations. This is a meaningful, long-term decision, and we want you to feel confident and comfortable with your choice.
Cremation Options
Cremation involves placing a coffin or casket into a cremator. At Springvale Botanical Cemetery and Bunurong Memorial Park, we have on-site crematoriums that have been serving families with care and dignity for many years. Cremation gives families many options to honour and remember their loved one in a personal way.
Scattered in a peaceful garden
Interred in a memorial site
Placed in a decorative cremation urn
Incorporated into a personalised tribute
Why Choose a Cemetery Memorial?
A cemetery memorial offers more than just a place to visit—it provides a lasting connection to your loved one, a sense of continuity, and a space for shared remembrance. Families often find comfort in knowing there is a dedicated location to return to, especially during anniversaries, birthdays, and other meaningful milestones.
Choosing a memorial within a cemetery ensures that your loved one’s legacy is preserved in a respectful and tranquil setting. It also creates a permanent record for future generations, allowing descendants to reflect, honour, and remember.
Even if ashes are scattered, families can still choose to place a token plaque within the cemetery. This small but meaningful tribute provides a physical marker of remembrance, offering a place to reflect and pay respects.
Whether you choose a garden memorial, niche wall, or token plaque, each option provides a dignified and enduring way to honour your loved one’s life.
Need Help Deciding?
If you're unsure whether burial or cremation is right for you or your loved one, our experienced Customer Care Consultants are here to help. We offer appointments at:
- Springvale Botanical Cemetery
- Bunurong Memorial Park
- Melbourne General Cemetery
Recommended
Burial Options and Services in Melbourne
- Springvale Botanical Cemetery +2 other locations
Traditional and natural burial options are available, including lawn, headstone, and monumental graves.
Natural & Green Burial Options in Melbourne
- Bunurong Memorial Park
The practice of placing a body into the earth in a manner that reflects the course of nature and limits the use of non-natural elements and processes.
Cremation Options and Services in Melbourne
- Springvale Botanical Cemetery, Bunurong Memorial Park
Discover flexible cremation options with SMCT, including traditional services, direct cremation, and personalised memorials. Honour your loved one with meaningful tributes across serene cemetery settings.