General:

Arranges and conducts funerals.

Skill Level:
The entry requirement for this occupation is an AQF Diploma or higher qualification or at least 3 years relevant experience. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification. Registration or licensing may be required.

Tasks Include:

• interviews families and associates of the deceased to advise on funeral arrangements such as the selection of coffin, type of service and publication of death notices
• advises on funeral costs and welfare provisions
• coordinates and supervises staff and makes funeral arrangements
• collects bodies from mortuaries
• ensures death certificates have been issued, burial and cremation certificates processed and that other legal requirements are met
• prepares bodies for viewing and burial, by washing, draining body fluids, applying padding and cosmetics, dressing bodies and placing them in coffins
• liaises with clergy and cemetery and crematorium staff
• coordinates the movement of coffins and funeral cars, arranges floral displays and collects attendance and tribute cards
• keeps records and accounts of transactions and services performed
• may arrange the construction of memorials and the disposal of ashes
• may provide specialist embalming services

Specialisations:
Embalmer