If you’re grieving, there are free services that can listen, support and connect you with help.
- NALAG – National Association for Loss and Grief
Free loss, grief and trauma support for people of all ages across Australia via telephone and online. Call 13 000 GRIEF (13 000 474 33), Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm (AEST/AEDT), or visit nalag.org.au to request a call back. [nalag.org.au] - Griefline
Free, confidential grief and loss support for adults 7 days a week, 8am–8pm (AEST/AEDT) by phone on 1300 845 745, plus 24/7 moderated online forums and resources. [griefline.org.au], [health.gov.au] - Lifeline (crisis support)
If you are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping, call 13 11 14 (24/7), text 0477 13 11 14 (24/7), or chat online (24/7). [lifeline.org.au] - Beyond Blue
24/7 mental health counselling via phone on 1300 22 4636, with webchat and email support also available. [beyondblue.org.au] - Grief Australia (formerly the Australian Centre for Grief & Bereavement)
Evidence‑informed grief information and counselling, with a national information line 1800 642 066 (Mon–Fri, business hours). [grief.org.au], [health.gov.au]
Emergency: If life is in danger, call 000 immediately.
Do you need financial support for at-need funeral costs?
In Australia, there are various pathways for financial assistance or low-cost arrangements when it comes to funeral costs.
Areas to consider include:
- Payment from the deceased’s estate (money in the bank, investments, shares, superannuation).
- Pre-Need cemetery/crematorium arrangements that have been paid in advance (check all legal paperwork and documents from Glenmorus).
- Superannuation (with life insurance) many super funds include life insurance that can be used for funeral expenses (a ‘compassionate release’ request can be made to the ATO for ‘reasonable’ funeral costs if there is no other way to pay).
- Centrelink also provides options for assistance payments immediately following a death.
- Remember that Cremation is the least expensive funeral option and is available at Glenmorus Memorial Gardens and Crematorium.
Below are some useful links to help outline what may be available.
NSW Government: Ways to pay for a funeral | NSW Government
Commonwealth Assistance Payments: Death of a loved one - Services Australia
Victoria State Government: Bereavement assistance - DFFH Services
NSW Aboriginal Land Council: Funeral Fund - NSW Aboriginal Land Council
