FAQ2025-03-20T21:59:18+10:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the Funeral Industry

Are there any certification or accreditation requirements for attending a seminar?2025-10-15T13:26:00+10:00

There are no formal certification or accreditation requirements to attend a grief and loss training seminar. However, Newhaven Funerals will provide a certificate of completion, which can be valuable for professional development or personal growth.

What topics are covered during a seminar?2025-10-15T13:25:48+10:00

A grief and loss training seminar covers key topics such as the stages of grief, managing grief triggers, practicing self-care, and supporting others who are grieving. These seminars provide practical tools to help individuals cope with grief and offer support to those in mourning.

Who would benefit from attending a grief and loss training seminar?2025-10-15T13:25:35+10:00

A grief and loss training seminar is ideal for nursing staff, caregivers, volunteers, and anyone working with grieving individuals, such as support workers and social workers. It helps them provide compassionate support and understanding during difficult times.

What is a grief and loss training seminar?2025-10-15T13:25:22+10:00

A grief and loss training seminar provides essential knowledge on understanding and supporting those experiencing grief. Led by grief counsellors, these sessions teach grief stages, coping strategies, and how to offer compassionate support, helping nursing staff and volunteers provide effective care during difficult times.

Can I pre-plan and pay for my funeral?2025-10-15T13:25:07+10:00

Yes, you can pre-plan and pre-pay for your funeral. Pre-planning allows you to make decisions about your funeral in advance, ensuring that your wishes are carried out exactly as you envision. Pre-paying can help alleviate the financial burden on your loved ones, as the cost is secured at today’s rates. We offer a range of flexible pre-paid funeral plans to suit different needs and preferences. Our team can guide you through the process and answer any questions to ensure you feel comfortable and informed.

What is the difference between cremation and burial?2025-10-15T13:24:54+10:00

The primary difference between cremation and burial is how the body is handled after death.

  • Cremation involves the process of transforming the body to ashes using high heat. The ashes, or “cremated remains,” can be kept in an urn, scattered in a meaningful place, or buried in a cemetery. Cremation is often chosen for its simplicity and flexibility, and it can be more affordable than burial.
  • Burial involves placing the body in a coffin or casket, which is then interred in a cemetery plot. This traditional option allows for a permanent resting place and offers the opportunity for memorialization with gravestones or other markers. Both options are respectful ways of honouring a loved one, and the choice between them often depends on personal, cultural, or financial preferences.
Can I personalize the funeral service?2025-10-15T13:24:40+10:00

Absolutely. We understand that every individual is unique, and we believe that the funeral service should reflect the life and personality of your loved one. From music choices and readings to custom floral arrangements and special tributes, we work closely with you to incorporate meaningful details into the service. Whether you want a traditional ceremony or something more contemporary, we are here to help make it a personal and memorable occasion.

Why choose Newhaven Funerals?2025-10-15T13:23:58+10:00

At Newhaven Funerals, we are committed to providing compassionate, personalized service tailored to your needs. Our experienced team offers guidance and support every step of the way, ensuring a respectful and meaningful tribute for your loved one. We understand the importance of honouring traditions, and we work closely with you to create a service that reflects your wishes. Whether you’re planning ahead or arranging a funeral in a time of need, you can trust us to handle everything with care, professionalism, and dignity.

What is involved in arranging a funeral?2025-10-15T13:23:35+10:00

Arranging a funeral typically involves several key steps. First, you’ll meet with the funeral director to discuss your wishes for the service, including the type of ceremony, burial or cremation preferences, and any religious or cultural customs. The funeral director will also handle necessary paperwork, such as the death certificate and permits. You’ll select items like a coffin, urn, and floral arrangements, as well as plan the order of events for the service. The director will also coordinate transport and ensure everything is in place for the day of the funeral. Throughout the process, the funeral director will offer support and guidance to ensure that all aspects are taken care of with respect and care.

Will the funeral director come to my home?2025-10-15T13:23:14+10:00

Yes, your funeral director will visit you at home, allowing you to stay in the comfort of your own space. They’ll guide you through the necessary arrangements and provide the support you need during this time.

Should I contact a funeral director straight away?2025-10-15T13:22:59+10:00

Yes, it’s a good idea to contact your funeral director as soon as possible after your loved one passes. Funeral directors can also arrange transportation for your loved one to the funeral home and provide support during this difficult time. Your funeral director can guide you through the necessary steps from help with legal requirements and assist with arrangements according to your loved ones wishes for their funeral.

Why should I pre-plan my funeral?2025-02-20T11:27:25+10:00

Pre-planning your funeral provides peace of mind for you and your family. It alleviates the emotional and financial burden on your loved ones during a difficult time and ensures that your wishes are carried out exactly as you’d like.

What is the difference between a pre-paid funeral and funeral insurance?2025-02-20T11:28:01+10:00

A pre-paid funeral allows you to lock in today’s prices by paying upfront, ensuring there are no unexpected costs for your family later. Funeral insurance requires ongoing payments and may ultimately cost more if payments are made over many years.

Can I pay for my funeral in instalments?2025-02-20T11:28:22+10:00

Yes, Newhaven Funerals offers flexible payment options to suit your needs. Speak to our team to learn more about our instalment plans.

What happens if I move interstate?2025-02-20T11:28:33+10:00

Our pre-paid funeral plans are designed to be flexible. If you move interstate, we can transfer your plan to one of our partner funeral homes in your new location.

What is included in a pre-paid funeral plan?2025-02-20T11:28:48+10:00

Our plans cover everything from the transfer of your loved one into our care, funeral arrangements, and service coordination, to cremation or burial services. Contact us for a detailed breakdown tailored to your needs.

When should I update my pre-paid funeral plan?2025-02-20T11:28:59+10:00

We recommend reviewing your plan every few years or whenever there are significant changes in your circumstances, such as moving, acquiring new assets, or a change in family dynamics.

Can I cancel my pre-paid plan if circumstances change?2025-02-20T11:29:05+10:00

Yes, we offer a 30-day cooling-off period where you can cancel your plan and receive a full refund. After this period, specific terms and conditions apply.

What is the process for transferring a pre-paid plan to another person?2025-02-20T11:29:11+10:00

Pre-paid plans can be transferred to another individual if needed. Contact our care team for assistance with the transfer process.

Can I customise the funeral service?2025-02-20T11:29:44+10:00

Yes, Newhaven Funerals offers fully customisable funeral services. Whether you’d like specific music, readings, or themes, our team will work with you to create a personalised service.

Do you offer eco-friendly funeral options?2025-02-20T11:29:51+10:00

Yes, we are proud to offer eco-friendly options, including green burials and sustainable urns. Speak to our team about our environmentally conscious choices.

What cultural or religious services do you accommodate?2025-02-20T11:29:58+10:00

We honour all cultural and religious traditions. Our experienced team will work with you to ensure that all practices and rituals are respected.

How soon after death can the funeral take place?2025-02-20T11:30:03+10:00

Funerals typically take place within a week of death, but this can vary depending on your preferences and circumstances. We’ll work with you to find a suitable date.

Do you provide transport for family members?2025-02-20T11:30:09+10:00

We can arrange transport for immediate family members upon request. Speak to our team for more information.

Can I include a livestream for those unable to attend?2025-02-20T11:30:18+10:00

Yes, we offer livestreaming services to ensure that loved ones who can’t attend in person can still participate and pay their respects.

What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial service?2025-02-20T11:30:32+10:00

A funeral service is held before the cremation or burial and includes the presence of the coffin. A memorial service takes place after the cremation or burial and can be held at a variety of venues, with or without the ashes present.

What venues can I choose for a memorial service?2025-02-20T11:31:04+10:00

We offer a wide variety of venues to suit your needs, from cemetery chapels and community halls to restaurants and private gardens. Let us know your preference, and we will make the necessary arrangements.

Can I personalise the funeral or memorial service?2025-02-20T11:30:37+10:00

Absolutely. Our services are designed to reflect the unique life and personality of your loved one. You can include personalised elements such as music, photos, videos, keepsakes, and more.

Do I need flowers at the service?2025-02-20T11:30:42+10:00

Flowers can add beauty and warmth to a service, but they are not mandatory. You can also include personal mementos, photos, or letters to honour your loved one in a meaningful way.

Can I include a photo slideshow during the service?2025-02-20T11:30:49+10:00

Yes, we can help create a slideshow featuring photos and videos of your loved one. Accompanied by their favourite music, this is a heartfelt way to honour their life.

What is the difference between cremation and burial?2025-02-20T11:31:20+10:00

Cremation involves reducing the body to ashes, which can be kept, scattered, or buried. Burial involves placing the body in a coffin or casket and interring it within a cemetery or other designated site.

What is a direct cremation?2025-02-20T11:31:28+10:00

A direct cremation is a simple, unattended cremation with no service. It’s an affordable option that allows families to hold a personalised memorial service at a later time.

Do you offer burial plots?2025-02-20T11:31:36+10:00

Yes, we can assist with securing burial plots in local cemeteries. Speak to our team for more details.

Do I need to display the ashes at the memorial service?2025-02-20T11:31:47+10:00

This is entirely up to you. Some families choose to include the ashes as a central element of the service, while others opt for a framed photograph or another meaningful item.

What happens to the ashes after cremation?2025-02-20T11:31:54+10:00

The ashes will be returned to your family in a dignified urn. You can choose to keep them, scatter them, or inter them into a memorial site.

What forms need to be completed for cremation?2025-02-20T11:32:04+10:00

We’ll guide your family through the necessary paperwork, including authorisation forms and registration of the passing with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. This ensures everything is handled legally and with care.

Can I pre-plan a direct cremation?2025-02-20T11:32:09+10:00

Yes, direct cremation can be included as part of a pre-paid plan, giving you peace of mind that your wishes will be fulfilled.

What types of urns are available?2025-02-20T11:32:20+10:00

We offer a variety of urns, from traditional to modern designs, as well as eco-friendly options. Our team can help you choose one that best suits your needs.

Who do I contact if my loved one passes away?2025-02-20T11:32:42+10:00

Our care team is available 24/7 to assist you. Call us immediately at 1800 644 524, and we will guide you through the next steps with compassion, care and professionalism.

What if my loved one passes away while travelling?2025-02-20T11:32:49+10:00

If a death occurs away from home, contact us immediately. We will coordinate the safe transfer of your loved one and ensure that all necessary arrangements are made.

Can I still make changes after arranging a pre-paid plan?2025-02-20T11:32:57+10:00

Yes, we understand that circumstances change. Our team is happy to help you update your plan to reflect your current wishes.

How do I store my will and final wishes?2025-02-20T11:33:03+10:00

Keep your will and final wishes in a safe but accessible place, such as with your executor, solicitor, or in a secure online vault. Ensure your executor knows where to find these documents when the time comes.

How do I choose an executor?2025-02-20T11:33:09+10:00

Choose someone you trust to handle your estate. This could be a family member, friend, or solicitor. Ensure they are organised, capable, and willing to take on the responsibility.

Can I pre-plan my final wishes without a formal will?2025-02-20T11:33:17+10:00

Yes, you can document your funeral preferences and final wishes separately, but we recommend having a legally binding will for your estate.

Why are your services so affordable?2025-02-20T11:33:26+10:00

We operate with a modern approach that reduces overhead costs, such as managing large funeral parlours. This allows us to provide high-quality, affordable services.

What if I change my mind about my pre-paid plan?2025-02-20T11:33:33+10:00

You have a 30-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel your plan and receive a full refund. After this period, your bond cannot be withdrawn prior to death except under specific circumstances

Do you offer payment plans?2025-02-20T11:33:38+10:00

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans to make our services accessible to everyone. Contact us for more details.

What happens when I pass away?2025-02-20T11:33:45+10:00

When the time comes, your family should contact us immediately. We will take care of everything, from bringing your loved one into our care to registering the passing and coordinating the service or cremation.

Are there any hidden fees?2025-02-20T11:33:54+10:00

No, all costs are transparently outlined in our packages. You’ll know exactly what’s included and what additional options are available.

Do you offer digital memorials?2025-02-20T11:34:08+10:00

Yes, we can create a digital memorial to celebrate your loved one’s life, including photos, videos, and messages from family and friends.

Is my personal information secure?2025-02-20T11:34:15+10:00

Yes, we prioritise the security of your information with advanced encryption and data protection measures.

How do I obtain a death certificate?2025-02-20T11:34:35+10:00

We handle the registration of the death with the relevant authorities and will provide you with the death certificate once it is issued.

Can I include special requests, such as military honours?2025-02-20T11:34:42+10:00

Yes, we can arrange for military honours or other special requests to be included in the service.

What happens if my loved one passes away overseas?2025-02-20T11:34:51+10:00

If your loved one passes away overseas, we can assist with repatriation services to bring them home safely.

Who do I contact in an emergency?2025-02-20T11:34:57+10:00

Our team is available 24/7. Call our emergency line, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.

How do I provide feedback about your services?2025-02-20T11:35:11+10:00

We value your feedback. You can provide comments through our website or speak directly to our team.

Are your services available across QLD?2025-10-08T15:02:37+10:00

Yes, we operate across QLD and can assist families in most regions.

Do you offer interpreter services?2025-02-20T11:35:30+10:00

Yes, we can arrange for interpreter services to accommodate non-English-speaking families.

How do I start the process of arranging a funeral?2025-02-20T11:35:36+10:00

Simply call us or visit our website to get started. Our compassionate team will guide you through every step of the process.

Go to Top