Funeral Wishes

Funeral wishes record how you would like your body to be dealt with and how your life should be commemorated — burial or cremation, a religious or secular service, and similar preferences. In Australia these wishes are not legally binding: the executor has the legal right and responsibility to arrange the funeral and is encouraged, but not compelled, to follow them. They are commonly set out in the Will or in a letter of wishes.

Because a Will may not be read until after the funeral, it is wise to also tell your family your wishes directly. Example: "I wish to be cremated and to have my ashes scattered at Bondi, with a small non-religious gathering." Where possible, make any prepaid funeral arrangements known to the executor so they can act quickly.