When a death occurs few of us are well prepared, we all need assistance and support when planning. The following information is intended to open up the subject....

The services you select may depend on whether you are making immediate arrangements.
for your loved one who has passed,or wish to make advanced arrangements.
Either way your Funeral Director will walk you through all of the services available
and explain the costs and reason associated with each service.

Ceremonies, Funerals & Gatherings Planning
A traditional funeral ceremony includes private viewings,
a formal service being a cremation or burial at the location of your choice, and transportation to a ceremony.
Other public or private gatherings may include a Graveside Service or a Memorial Service.

Information to help you arrange a funeral, choose what cemetery or crematorium and advice on "What You Need to Know About Funerals".
A funeral or memorial is a customary way to recognise death and its finality.
Funerals are held for the living to show respect for the dead and to help survivors
begin the grief process. They also give mourners a chance to share stories,
create memories, fulfill religious beliefs & customs, participate in a support system,
and gather at a peaceful place during a time of confusion and uncertainty.

The main role of the Funeral Director is to arrange with the following: 

Obtain the signature of the attending physician, coroner or medical examiner and file
the certificate with Births Deaths & Marriages. Transfer the deceased from the
place of death to the Funeral Home. Determine the budget (if funeral has not been
pre-arranged). Determine if you require a cremation or burial the funeral or memorial service location such as church,
chapel, or graveside. Plan for viewing if required and determine type of coffin. Make
necessary arrangements with clergy, church and cemetery officials. Compose and
submit newspaper and other media notices. Choose clothing & jewelry. Select
poems, scripture, readings. Select music: taped, live musicians, etc. Choose people
to carry coffin. Arrange Florist. Purchase acknowledgement cards, register books,
memorial folders, etc. Arrange for family transportation to and from service.

Funeral Information Australia Regarding planning Cremations & Burials.