A home funeral

• A doctor confirms the death and issues the MCCD
• You care for the body at home — washing, dressing, cooling
• You hold a vigil — as long as you like, with whoever you choose
• You register the death with Births, Deaths and Marriages (you can do this yourself)
• You transport the body to the crematorium or cemetery (or a funeral home for cremation only)
• You conduct the farewell — at home, at a park, at the graveside
• You receive the ashes (if cremation) or attend the burial

• Medical Certificate of Cause of Death (MCCD) — from the certifying doctor
• Notification of death to Births, Deaths and Marriages (you can register this yourself)
• Application for burial or cremation permit (through the cemetery or crematorium)
• Transport documentation (if required by your state — check with the cemetery or crematorium)

A home funeral costs far less than a full funeral — mainly the cremation or burial fee, the death certificate, and ice. If you use a coffin, simple cardboard or plywood ones can be bought directly from coffin suppliers. You can also build one.

A home funeral guide or death doula can walk you through the whole process — from the first phone call to the last. They don't replace you; they support you. The Natural Death Advocacy Network (NDAN) at ndan.com.au has a directory.