Funeral reforms on Government agenda

The Palaszczuk Government is set to prioritise reform in the funeral services sector, with a focus on price transparency for customers.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman is encouraging Queenslanders to have their say on funeral service operations in a survey conducted by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

“Arranging a funeral can be a difficult and emotionally-fuelled task that can be made even more difficult as customers aren’t given an opportunity to compare funeral prices and products easily,” said Minister Fentiman.

“That’s why I’m encouraging Queenslanders with experience of organising a funeral, working in the industry or even supplying the industry, who have information or concerns to contribute to this survey.

“This survey is the first step for the Palaszczuk Government to hear from consumers and stakeholders on this important issue and to better understand the concerns of the wider community in this space.”

Ms Fentiman also welcomed the ACCC announcement that competition and consumer issues in the sector is a current priority and that they have begun collecting insights from people all around Australia.

“We want Queenslanders to have a fair go at a time when they are most vulnerable.”

The survey is available at the ACCC consultation hub and will remain open until 16 April 2021.

The survey is open to everyone but may be of particular interest to consumers, funeral homes, crematoria and cemeteries, and suppliers to funeral homes. 

It will take approximately 15 minutes to complete and there is an option to save and return later to finish if it’s needed.  The questions are voluntary, and you can choose to complete the survey anonymously.

For more information on the survey see the ACCC consultation hub.