Financial support for funeral planning

The passing of a loved one is a challenging time. It can often leave bereaved family members in vulnerable circumstances, both emotionally and financially.

We understand the grief that you may experience, and appreciate the compounding impact that financial hardship can have. While we all plan to give the perfect send-off, funerals and memorials can be expensive, so we are here to help.

The following options may be available depending on you and your loved one's circumstances.

We encourage you to explore what Australian Government welfare options are available if you are facing financial hardship. Centrelink has payments, support, and other services to help you when someone close to you passes away. The Services Australia website has helpful information on the welfare support you can access when an adult External siteor a child External sitepasses away.

2. State Trustees

When a bereaved family cannot afford a funeral for a loved one, they can contact State Trustees.

For further information, please visit the State Trustees websiteExternal site.

3. Support Services

When a loved one passes, it can be tough to process, and the thought of social groups and activities can be challenging. However, one-on-one counselling is available in times of grief, and there are several other professional services worth considering.

• Use Services Australia's service finderExternal site to find other support available near you

• The Australian Centre for Grief and BereavementExternal site has online resources

• Beyond BlueExternal site provides confidential counselling services 24-7

• GrieflineExternal site provides telephone and online counselling

• headspaceExternal site is the national youth mental health foundation

• Head to HealthExternal site is a digital gateway for online and phone mental health services

• LifelineExternal site is a national charity open 24-7 to all Australians in personal crisis

We understand how challenging the death of a loved one can be. Regardless of your financial situation or any other unfortunate circumstances, we are here for you. If you or someone you know is experiencing financial hardship and unable to afford a funeral, get in touchExternal site with one of our friendly team members today.