New funeral regulation means better price transparency
Planning a funeral for yourself or a loved one is set to become easier for Queenslanders with the Palaszczuk Government introducing stronger consumer protections to ensure better price transparency in the funeral industry.
Funeral directors will be subject to the new rules from 1 July 2022.
“Organising a funeral is an extremely emotional time and an often-stressful process,” Minister Shannon Fentiman said.
“Unfortunately, this can be made more stressful when information on funerals costs and products is not clear or easy to understand.
“That is why we are delivering on our promise to ensure there is greater price transparency in the funeral industry.
“Funeral homes often bundle goods and services into a package without any accessible pricing information or clearly stating which of these are required and which are optional extras.
“Greater price transparency will reduce confusion for consumers who are making decisions at a vulnerable time in their lives.
“It also means that consumers will not be left with an unexpected hefty bill after the service. There will be no hidden costs.”
From mid-2022 funeral directors will have to display an itemised price list on their website and at their premises.
They will also need to display the price of their least expensive package for consumers wanting a simple funeral.
Additionally, consumers will be able to request a cost-itemised quote before entering an agreement to carry out the funeral.
The funeral director will have to provide the information within 48 hours, unless a longer period is agreed, or before the agreement is entered into, whichever happens first.
From mid-2022 funeral directors will have to display an itemised price list on their website and at their premises.
They will also need to display the price of their least expensive package for consumers wanting a simple funeral.
Additionally, consumers will be able to request a cost-itemised quote before entering an agreement to carry out the funeral.
The funeral director will have to provide the information within 48 hours, unless a longer period is agreed, or before the agreement is entered into, whichever happens first.
The decision to introduce these new rules follows a consultation process undertaken by the Palaszczuk Government to seek broad community and business views on the issue of funeral price transparency in Queensland.
“After considering the outcomes of the consultation, and national and international movements towards legislated price transparency for funerals, the Queensland government will proceed with better protections for consumers.” Minister Fentiman said
Newhaven Funerals General Manager Tim Connolly has welcomed the new regulations.
“Newhaven Funerals has always been committed to supporting any government regulation that strives to improve our industry and we welcome funeral price transparency for all Queensland families,” said Tim.
We are always happy to help provide advice, so don’t hesitate to get in touch by completing the contact form here or call us 24/7 on 1800 644 524
For more information and an update on funeral prices please visit What a Funeral Costs in Brisbane & the Gold Coast.
Article by 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 |
