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Click
here to view the AFDA Code of Ethics |
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Questions
What are the AFDA Code of Ethics?
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To maintain in all matters the highest standards of business, professional
and personal conduct. |
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To respect in all circumstances the confidentiality and trust placed in us
by our clients and members of the public. |
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To ensure that staff is qualified and competent. |
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To ensure that facilities are adequate for all services rendered to the
community. |
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To provide information concerning the range of services available, the
prices of these services, and the functions and responsibilities accepted on
behalf of our clients. |
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To give a written estimate of all funeral charges and disbursements to be
made on a clients behalf at the time of taking instructions, or as soon as
is practicable. |
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To respect the personal choice of clients and have regard for their
diversity of beliefs in religious and cultural practices. |
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To ensure that all advertising is in good taste and directed to informing
the public |
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To
be thoroughly conversant with the laws of the land as they apply to funeral
service and allied industries and professions. |
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To provide access to a clients advisory service with conciliation and
arbitration arrangements available to help resolve any disputes which arise
between members and their clients. |
How do I become a member?
For a membership application and information kit, please telephone the
Membership Coordinator in the AFDA National Office on: 1300 888 188.
What do I do when someone dies?
Contact the person's doctor. A doctor must certify that death has
occurred. Normally funeral arrangements cannot be completed until the doctor has
signed and issued a Death Certificate. The funeral company can then take
the deceased into their care.
In Australia the great majority of deaths occur in hospital or other
care facilities, in which case those authorities take care of the
medical formalities.
In certain instances it may not be legally possible for the doctor to
issue a death certificate and there is necessity for police and coronial
involvement.
NOTE: We would advise that you contact the relevant authorities for full details
as regulations do vary from state to state.
When does the Coroner become involved?
If the doctor is unable to certify the cause of death it is necessary to
contact the police, who then will liaise with coronial staff. This will
be necessary in such instances as:
Death other than by natural causes, including violence,
accidental or unusual causes;
Whilst under anaesthetic (or within 24 hours of the
administration of an anaesthetic);
Unexpected death;
Death of a person in an institution, a prison or in police
custody, drug or alcohol rehabilitation centre;
When the cause of death is unknown; and
When the deceased had diagnosed dementia.
Coronial staff or a Government appointed funeral company will transfer
the deceased to the Coroner. In the instance of deceased with dementia
this may not be deemed necessary following police determinations.
A post mortem examination, also know as autopsy is a detailed
examination externally and of internal organs to establish the cause of
death. This examination is conducted by a doctor known as a pathologist.
An approach to a funeral director of your choice should be made as soon
as possible. The Funeral Director will then liaise with Coronial staff
regarding release of the deceased into their care.
Who is responsible for arranging a
funeral?
In most instances, the next of kin eg. spouse, child, parent, legal
partner or sibling.
In instance of dispute, where it is known a Will exists, the arbiter of
arrangements is deemed to be the nominated Executor. The Executor may in
his/her discretion appoint a person to make necessary arrangements with
a Funeral Director. Such occasions, however, are infrequent and most
arrangements are made by next of kin.
In some cases authorities in institutions where a person may not have
any known relatives may need to make necessary arrangements. This is
usually done by the Social Worker or another authorised officer.
Would most people choose burial or
cremation?
In Australia today the numbers of people choosing to be cremated are
steadily increasing. Whilst there is some variance between states and
territories, cremations now outnumber burials. Cremation funerals are
much higher in city areas where crematory facilities are available.
Rural and remote regions predominate in burials.
People have a choice of either burial or cremation. In certain cultures
cremation is not favoured (or may be prohibited within the relevant
faith belief). In other cultures the opposite may occur with cremation
being the custom e.g. as in the Hindu tradition.
It is a matter of personal choice. Future trends may see higher
instances of cremation due to increasing limits on cemetery space within
or convenient to population centres.
How much choice does the family have
in funeral arrangements?
The family has absolute choice with certain exceptions as in the case of
Coronial Investigation in some murder cases where permission may be
given for a funeral by burial only.
A Funeral Director can volunteer options to a family but it is the
families right to choose whatever they wish providing necessary legal
requirements are met. There may be some variation between states and
territories within Australia, however, in most instances relevant Health
Departments require deceased to be placed in a coffin or casket for
burial or cremation. In the case of cremation the coffin/casket must be
combustible.
Again in certain states funerals may be Government assisted in the event
of insufficient funds. Such funerals have limitations on choices. Advice
when necessary could be given in the first instance by a Funeral
Director, Social Worker or relevant Government Office.
How much will a
funeral cost?
The obvious and understandable question, like building a house - the
answer could be almost limitless. There are certain necessary inclusions
and certifications required, some of which have fixed costs, some of
which are negotiable. The concept of cremation being much less in cost
than burial may not always be the case if the family already have a
licence/lease for a grave which has allowed provision for further
interments, in which case re-opening and digging fees would apply.
A specific answer cannot be given to this question because of the scope
of options available. The costs of a funeral are categorised under:
Professional Service Fees;
Disbursements, i.e. Funeral company out of pocket expenses;
and
Coffin or Casket choice.
What is embalming and when is it
required?
Essentially, embalming is the process of replacement of body fluids with
chemical fluid for the purpose of the preservation of the body:
Infection control; and
Enhancing the presentation of the deceased.
Embalming can be minimal or unnecessary in some instances; partial for
the benefit of families wishing to "view" and/or when the funeral may be
within a week; or full embalming as may be expected in some cultures or
when the body is to be repatriated interstate or overseas.
Is a viewing necessary?
A "viewing" is that opportunity to see and spend time with the person
who has died prior to the funeral. Again, in some cultures it may also
occur during the funeral. An identification viewing is necessary in
Coronial reported details and occurs at the Coroner's facility prior to
funeral arrangements. In some states it is also obligatory for a person
who knew the deceased to view and sign an official identification form
which must be sighted and retained by the Crematorium authority prior to
cremation.
In a general sense otherwise there is not an obligation to view,
however, the therapeutic benefits of a viewing to the grief process are
well regarded and recommended. It is nonetheless a matter of personal
choice and requires sensitivity in approach, the physical environment
and setting. And yes, providing explanations are given to children in
language that they can understand, there is no reason why they should
not have the opportunity to be involved - but, allow them to decide.
Viewings can offer these chances we wish we had...."if only", to:
Finish-off unfinished business;
Confirm the reality of death; and
To say the "I love you", "I'm sorry", "If only" words we may
want to say.
Why should I choose an AFDA Funeral
Director?
AFDA members and the AFDA
Trademark represents security, care and professional service. Formed in
1935, AFDA is the only national funeral service organisation with member
firms in every State and Territory.
AFDA member firms are chosen by more than 60% of families to provide
funeral arrangements for their loved ones.
AFDA members are bound by a strict Code of Ethics and Practice designed
to meet both community needs and expectation in all aspects of service
delivery. The code is a reassurance to the community of sincere care and
professional service, particularly at a time of uncertainty and distress
for grieving family and relatives.
Prospective member firms must comply with required standards for
premises, equipment and vehicles (PEV) before AFDA membership is
granted. Re-accreditation is required every three years.
The Australian Funeral Directors Association develops and promotes
professional standards in the funeral industry. In conjunction with its
membership, community groups and professional expertise, AFDA has
developed several standards for industry practice. These are based upon
fundamental and legitimate occupational health and safety, public
health, legal and community standards. AFDA member firms are required to
abide by these standards.
AFDA is widely recognised as the authoritative voice on all funeral
matters. The Association is a public company, limited by guarantee that
is administered by an elected board with a national office and six
divisional offices.
What is a Pre-Paid Funeral?
A prepaid funeral is where you purchase your funeral in advance. The
type and style of funeral you want is documented in a contract and you
pay for that funeral at today's prices. Subject to any specific terms of
a prepaid funeral contract (eg. if Government taxes are subsequently
imposed or increased), you will not have to pay any more for that
contracted funeral regardless of when the funeral is required. Your
payment is invested with an independently managed funeral fund and is
only released to the funeral director once the contracted funeral
service is completed.
A prearranged funeral is where you may discuss with a funeral director
your preference for a type and style of funeral and the funeral director
may record your preferences for future reference, but no formal
agreement is entered into for that specific funeral. It will be the
responsibility of your family or executor to arrange the funeral and to
pay for it at the time of the funeral.
Someone suggested a
"Funeral Bond" - What does this cover?
A funeral bond is a specialised investment which enables you to
accumulate funds to meet future funeral expenses. An investment in a
funeral bond is similar to a life insurance policy, whereby your benefit
becomes payable on death. The benefits must be used to meet your funeral
expenses. A funeral bond is an investment towards the cost of a funeral
and by itself does not guarantee against rising funeral prices.
What are the benefits of a Pre-paid
Funeral Plan and who is eligible to take one out?
Anyone can take out a Prepaid Funeral Plan regardless of their age or
state of health, and in doing so can enjoy the following benefits:
You can protect your family from the distress of making difficult
decisions at an emotional time;
Your family will be relieved from any financial burden;
It makes good financial sense. By making all of your choices now, you
can fix the price of funeral at today's costs (subject to any specific
terms of the contact);
You can ensure that your exact wishes are made known and are carried
out;
Prepaying means real peace of mind for you and your family; and
You may be able to maximise your pension entitlement. Any money paid
into the Plan is not subject to the income or assets test or deemed
earnings rule (according to current legislation).
What does a Pre-paid Funeral Plan
include?
A Prepaid Funeral Plan is designed to reflect your wished and therefore
can include what you want, however, some options to consider include:
The type and style of funeral service you would like;
Preparation of the body and viewing arrangements;
Burial or cremation;
Which cemetery or crematorium;
Type of coffin or casket;
Minister or Celebrant;
Memorial book and Memorial cards;
Death notices, flowers, mourning vehicles etc; and
Special features you would like to include such as a poem or
piece of music.
If I pay for my funeral now, who keeps
the money?
The money you pay for your Prepaid Funeral Plan is held secure by an
independent entity such as a friendly society or trustee company and is
properly invested and safeguarded until such time as the funeral
services under the Prepaid Funeral Plan are required. Only then will the
funeral director be paid.
Can I pay a Pre-paid Funeral Plan by
instalments?
There are two ways to make payments for a Prepaid Funeral Plan. You can
pay for your Prepaid Funeral Plan in a lump sum or your funeral director
may give you the option to pay by instalments. This is usually arranged
through a direct debit or booklet payment system.
What if I move my residence
interstate?
If you move interstate you can rearrange your Prepaid Funeral Plan
accordingly. Your funeral director will be able to assist you with the
transferring of your Plan to another funeral director. However, prices
cannot necessarily be guaranteed on a transfer, as there are price
differences between many country and city areas. The funds are required
to stay in the secure investment you have arranged and can be accessed
by the new funeral director at the time of the funeral.
What happens if you die interstate or
overseas?
Your funeral director should be notified immediately. Your funeral
director should be able to arrange for the transport of the deceased and
attend to any statutory or customs requirements. In these circumstances
there is usually an additional fee for the transportation of the
deceased. Should the death and funeral occur overseas or interstate, the
funds in the Prepaid Funeral Plan will be paid to the estate.
What happens if the funeral company I
choose goes out of business?
The money you pay for your Prepaid Funeral Plan is held by an
independent entity and therefore is completely protected. It is invested
in a separate fund in your name. It is not accessible by your funeral
director until your funeral service has been provided. In the unlikely
event that your original funeral director is no longer in business, you
can organise to have the Plan transferred to another funeral director.
Can I get my money out of Pre-paid
Funeral Plan?
No. You cannot withdraw from a Prepaid Funeral Plan prior to death, nor
can it be used in any other way than to pay for your funeral expenses.
If you are not completely satisfied with your Prepaid Funeral Plan, your
investment can be cancelled and your money refunded in full within 14
days of receipt of your investment confirmation. Otherwise no withdrawal
from a Prepaid Funeral Plan is permitted.
What is the AFDA Policy for Pre-Paid
Funerals?
View the
AFDA
Policy for Pre-Paid Funerals.
What is Grief?
Grief is a NORMAL emotional and physical response when we have
experienced a significant loss and/or change in or lives. The death of
someone we love results in emotional responses such as disbelief, anger,
guilt, depression and a feeling of emptiness. Physical symptoms can
include sleeplessness, loss of concentration, feeling detached and
numbness.
How long does grief last?
Grief responses are very individual. Each person will react in their own
unique way. There are certain chemicals released by the grieving person,
sometimes for months after the death, which are normal. These chemicals
change the way we think and feel. Often a birthday, Christmas and the
1st. anniversary of the death are especially difficult times. It can
take 2-5 years to re-adjust after a death of a loved one.
Does grief just affect your emotions?
Grief affects us both emotionally and physically. Our thought processes
can alter for a time. Being vague and forgetful, fear of going crazy,
too much sleeping or lack of it are normal. Some people say they see or
hear the person who has died. Our bodily systems can change, more
infections, coughs, colds, high blood pressure all occur with some
grieving people and can be checked by your doctor.
Is it wrong to have conflicting
feelings?
When a loved one has suffered a long drawn out illness, it is common to
feel relieved or glad when the person dies. In time you will feel sad at
the loss of that person in your life and perhaps experience guilt at
your earlier reaction of relief, especially if the death has given you
greater personal freedom. Grief is like being on a roller-coaster, your
emotions can change from day to day or even hour to hour. When grieving,
we need to be kind to ourselves and not make judgements on our own
behaviour. If you find yourself having a good day, enjoy it, the next
day you could feel devastated again.
Is it more difficult to recover from
the impact of a sudden death?
A sudden death is different from an expected death. When someone is
dying we have the opportunity to deal with 'unfinished business' and
perhaps lessen our regrets of things we wish we had said or done. With
sudden and unexpected death there usually has been no opportunity for
this and the grieving can be different. It can be most important then to
spend some time with the deceased person i.e. viewing to say goodbye.
What do I say to someone who is
grieving?
People who are grieving need to be allowed to express their feelings in
a safe environment. They need to know you will not judge or devalue
their feelings by using cliches such as 'At least he didn't suffer'.
What you can say to a grieving person is something like 'I wish I had
the words to ease the pain you are going through right now'.
Do children grieve?
Children from the age of 3-4 years are aware that someone is missing and
need to be involved in the family with the funeral if they so choose.
Older children will often outwardly copy adults in their grieving eg.
crying or not crying, while inwardly having their own grief reactions as
individuals.
Does grief affect men and women
differently?
It appears there are male and female types of grief responses. A typical
male reaction can be to not talk about things because this will 'only
cause upset'. They need to feel in control to be the 'protector',
'leader' and 'fixer'. Some women can use this method as well. A typical
female reaction will be to talk over and over again about the deceased
person and the death, often with tears and emotion. These different. and
both normal reactions can cause strife in relationships.
What do we tell the children?
Children under the age of three need to be kept in their routine with
primary care givers as much as possible. Over that age they need to be
told simply and honestly what has happened and what will happen about a
funeral and 'viewing', then asked if they would like to be there. They
can accept matters if they can choose. Often children will draw a
picture, use a photo or a toy to place in the coffin to say goodbye.
What can I do to help someone who is
grieving?
People in grief need acceptance of their emotions for however long it
takes for them to heal. Practical items such as shopping or cooking,
minding children is very helpful. Often the grieving person is afraid
that others are 'sick of them' and will not ask for help. Telephone the
grieving person on a regular basis with their permission, just to show
you care. Allow them to grieve in their own way.
Does the AFDA have an office in my
State?
View the
AFDA Divisional offices list.
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