SYDNEY - AussieJournal -- When someone we love passes away, cost is the last thing we want to think about — but it's often one of the first questions that hits families in crisis: "How much does a funeral actually cost?"

For years, Australians have struggled to find straight answers. Between vague pricing, bundled packages, and rising industry costs, planning a farewell can feel like navigating a maze — and one that's often clouded by grief.

That's why eziFunerals created the Australian Funeral Index (AFI) — an independent annual benchmark that shines a light on the real cost of farewells across Australia.

💰 What the 2025 Australian Funeral Index Reveals

The AFI 2025 shows that the average cost of a funeral in Australia now ranges between $5,000 and $8,000, depending on location, type of service, and whether cremation or burial is chosen.

According to IBISWorld, the funeral-services industry is now valued at around $2 billion and growing steadily at 2.1% a year. These estimates may or may not include crematorium fees, meaning the true total can be even higher for many families.

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eziFunerals founder Peter Erceg says the index isn't about selling funerals — it's about empowering people with facts and transparency.

⚖️ Direct Cremation – The "New Normal"

One of the clearest trends in this year's index is the rise of direct cremation — a simple, no-service cremation option where families can arrange a separate memorial later.

This option, often costing between $2,000 and $3,500, appeals to Australians looking for flexibility, affordability, and personal control.

But the AFI warns: not all low-cost providers are transparent. Some outsource key services or operate without clear disclosure, leaving families unsure where their loved one is actually being cared for.

That's where eziFunerals' independent funeral comparison platform helps — giving families a clear view of funeral homes, costs, and inclusions before they commit.

📊 Why Transparency Matters More Than Ever

The AFI isn't just about dollars and cents. It's about consumer rights and the emotional impact of financial stress during one of life's hardest moments.

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Rising living costs, housing pressures, and limited social support mean that even a modest funeral can push many households into debt. For some, government assistance or community funeral funds are the only options.

That's why transparency — not just affordability — is becoming the cornerstone of how Australians plan funerals in 2025.

"Families should be able to compare options just like they do for insurance or utilities," says Erceg. "That's what eziFunerals is here for — to make sure no one feels pressured, confused, or alone."

The Australian Funeral Index 2025 offers families a clearer picture — not just of what funerals cost, but what they should cost.

👉 Read the full article on eziFunerals (https://ezifunerals.com.au/australian-funeral-index-2025-annual-edition/)