Funeral FAQs

We treat every person with the utmost respect, as though their family were present with them at all times. Your loved one is cared for gently and professionally throughout their time with us.

You can choose clothing based on what your loved one enjoyed wearing or what feels most meaningful — everyday wear, something special, or an item that was significant to them. If you’re unsure, our funeral directors can guide you.
If no clothing is provided, we will dress your loved one in an appropriate shroud.

Coffins are tapered at the head and foot and wider at the shoulders, while caskets are rectangular in shape. Caskets are often crafted from higher-quality timbers and feature more detailed workmanship.
Choosing between the two simply comes down to personal preference and budget.

At Finney’s, the only item removed before cremation is the nameplate, which stays with your loved one’s remains to ensure correct identification. The coffin or casket — including the hardware — is cremated in full.

It’s entirely your choice. Jewellery can be removed as a keepsake or left with your loved one. If left on during cremation, soft metals will break down in the cremation process.

Embalming is only required in certain circumstances, such as interstate or overseas transfers, above-ground vault placement, or when there is a significant delay before the funeral.
If needed, our funeral director will guide you through the process. Embalming is carried out by our qualified staff, who are members of the Australian Institute of Embalming, ensuring the highest standards of care.

There are no set rules. Many children feel comfortable attending a funeral when supported by their family. It can also be a valuable opportunity for them to learn about grief and remembrance. Children often appreciate being included — for example, placing a flower, reading a poem, or contributing something meaningful.

Ashes are usually ready within one day. If needed, special arrangements can be made to collect them on the same day as the cremation.

A public service is announced in the newspaper, and anyone is welcome to attend.
A private service is by invitation only. In these cases, a notice is often placed in the paper after the funeral has taken place.

A traditional grave includes kerbing and granite monumental work over the site.
A lawn grave is set within a grassed area and cannot be enclosed with kerbing; it is marked by a headstone or bronze plaque at the head of the grave.

It generally takes up to three weeks for the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages to process and send the certificate. Cases involving the Coroner may take longer.
Your funeral director can apply for the certificate on your behalf, or you can apply directly through Service Tasmania. A Priority Certificate is available for an additional fee, which reduces the processing time to 24 hours.

Bank accounts held in joint names are generally not affected by the death of one of the account holders. Sole accounts may still be accessed for certain purposes, and in many cases a bank will release funds to cover funeral expenses when the funeral account is presented. This allows the funeral to be paid from the deceased person’s estate without delay.