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When the time comes, it can be hard to decide whether you want to go through with a burial or a cremation.

Nobody wants to think about it, but figuring it out will mean you and your family have peace of mind when the time comes.

A 2014 study found that roughly two-thirds of Australians prefer cremation, while the rest were split between burial and no preference, so it’s important to educate yourself before making a decision.

1. Cost

Generally speaking, cremation is cheaper than burial as there is no need to pay for an expensive burial plot and excavation.

That being said, the exact prices tend to vary based on the venue as well as any other services or staff involved.

For example, a direct cremation with no one in attendance is cheaper than a cremation overseen by family members.

Even the type of coffin can radically change how much burials cost, with some being up to $10,000.

2. Sentiment

Burials and cremations both allow the departed to continue having a presence in their family’s life; if they are buried, the family can visit the gravestone to mark holidays and pay respects.

On the other hand, displaying their ashes in an urn has some conveniences.

It keeps them close and lets the family keep hold of them if they end up moving far from the gravestone.

Alternatively, a burial plot is arguably more communal, as they can be visited by anyone at any time of the year, rather than be kept in a specific home.

3. Environment

Both routes also bring different environmental concerns.

Cremation is said to harm the atmosphere due to the emissions and energy used in the process.

Burials, meanwhile, have become less popular over the years due to concerns of available space in cemeteries, and the fact that embalming chemicals can be released into the soil as the body decomposes and further, the site needs to be maintained forever.

4. Religion

A person’s religion can be a factor in the decision, as not every belief system allows for both.

Most denominations of Christianity approve of cremation, but some forbid it or stipulate that the ashes need to be kept in a sacred space.

Conversely, Hinduism prefers cremation, as it is thought to help the soul to quickly leave the body.

If you are choosing this for yourself, you need to do what you feel comfortable with.

Your wishes should always be at the centre of these decisions.

If you are choosing this on behalf of another person, please consider what you feel they would want, and consult other family members if needed.

This may not be an easy decision to make, but with the help of the pre planning experts at Newhaven Funerals will become much easier for you.

If you wish to discuss the funeral options available, please call us on 1800 644 524 and speak to one of our experienced funeral directors who are trained to answer any question you may have

Article by Tim Connolly – Newhaven Funerals

Tim Connolly Funeral Director Newhaven Funerals

Tim Connolly – Funeral Director

Newhaven Funerals Brisbane & Gold Coast.

Growing up around funerals since the age of six allows Tim a unique understanding of how a family owned funeral business should be.

Since leaving school in 1992 Tim has been deeply involved in all aspects of operating their family owned business, including operating crematoriums, memorial gardens and pet cremation business.

Tim is always available to assist all clients with any request