Getting Started -
A Guide to Arranging a Funeral Service.
1. Call Us
After a death it may be difficult to know whom to contact. I
The place of passing can have an impact on who you may need to call,
​
If the death occurs in a Hospital or Aged Care Facility under supervision, that facility may contact us directly if they have been notified of your funeral home of choice. In this circumstance the Doctor of the person who has passed will likely issue the Medical Death Certificate required under Law. However if the death has occurred in a supervised setting and the cause of death can not be ascertained, the Doctor may refer to the Melbourne Coronial Services. In this scenario, it is best to notify us as soon as possible to allow us to liaise with the Coroners Court to bring your loved one into our care as soon as possible.
​
If the passing occurs at home in the presence of someone, that person should contact the Doctor who has been attending to the individual leading up to their passing. This may be family, friends, or home carers. In this scenario, it is unlikely authorities such as the police will need to be called as the person has been under medical care leading up to their death. After you have contacted the Doctor, it is best to notify us of the passing, to arrange a time to bring your loved one into our care.
​
In the event of a sudden or unexpected passing and the individual has not been under medical care leading up to their passing, the appropriate authorities need to be contacted such as the police and ambulance. It is important to not disturb the deceased in any way until the authorities arrive to assist them in ascertaining the cause of death. The Authorities will attempt to make contact with the deceased's usual doctor to confirm if they are willing to issue a Medical Death Certificate. If they are not, the authorities will contact the Melbourne Coronial Services and your loved will be taken into their care to ascertain the cause of death.
It is advisable to make contact with your funeral home.
2. Meet With Us
Getting together to make the necessary funeral arrangements can often be a very emotional and daunting step, so its important that you take this step when you feel ready and comfortable. This can take place either at our premises which allows you the benefit of seeing our Chapel and Gardens, or we can make arrangements in the comfort of your own home.
​
To talk to one of our friendly staff about how we can guide you through these steps call us on (03) 5248 5500.
There are legal documents applicable. These forms ensure the appropriate processes are followed arranging for a burial or cremation.
We liaise with Cemetery Trusts, arranging authorization permitting burial or cremation.
We will guide you through all the necessary paperwork relevant to your arrangements.
3. Sign Paperwork
4. Coordinate
Once arrangements are made, we can discuss the finer details of a service: visual tribute,
bookmarks, photo-cards and/or order-of-service booklets, tribute tables, music choices.
5. Support
It can be difficult to talk to those closest to you or you may need some professional help and guidance in coping with the grief of loss. We are not healthcare professionals - but we help lead you in the right direction.
Please consider our Bereavement Support Page