What to Do With Ashes After Cremation in Australia

After a cremation, the family usually receives the ashes in a simple container from the funeral home. There's no rush to decide what happens next. Many families wait weeks or months until the time feels right. This guide covers the main options in Australia and what to check before you choose.

1. Keep them at home in an urn

Keeping ashes at home is legal in Australia, and it's one of the most common choices. The right urn makes it feel like them rather than a container on a shelf. For sports lovers, our AFL, NRL and football urns are made from a genuine ball in their team's colours. See our buying guide to cremation urns in Australia for other styles and sizes.

2. Scatter them somewhere meaningful

Popular places include beaches, the ocean, a favourite walking track, a family property, or a sporting ground they loved. Before you scatter:

• Private land: ask the owner's permission. That includes sporting clubs and ovals.
• National parks and reserves: rules differ by state, and some parks ask you to apply for permission. Check with the state parks authority first.
• Beaches and council land: check with the local council, and choose a quiet time away from swimmers.
• At sea: scatter away from beaches and swimmers, and don't release non-biodegradable containers or plastic flowers.

Many families scatter a small portion and keep the rest at home, so they have both a special place and somewhere to visit every day.

3. Bury them

Ashes can be buried in a cemetery plot, a family grave or a memorial garden, usually for a smaller fee than a full burial. Some families bury ashes in their own garden under a tree. Keep in mind the house may be sold one day.

4. Share them between family members

When family live in different places, ashes can be divided. Keepsake urns and small memorial pieces hold a portion each, so everyone has something close.

5. Turn them into a keepsake

Ashes can also be included in jewellery, glass art or memorial pieces. These usually use a small amount, so they pair well with an urn that holds the rest.

How to decide

• What did they love, and where did they feel most themselves?
• Does the family want a place to visit, or something to keep at home?
• Are there family members who'd like a share?
• Is anyone likely to move house? A portable urn may suit better than a garden burial.

Frequently asked questions

Is it legal to keep ashes at home in Australia?

Yes. There's no law against keeping cremated remains at home.

Do I need a permit to scatter ashes?

On private land you need the owner's permission. For national parks, reserves and council land, rules vary by state and council, so check with them first.

How much space do adult ashes take up?

Usually between 2.5 and 3.5 litres. Our sports ball urns hold about 3.8 litres, enough for most adults.

If you'd like to talk it through, you can speak to Alison directly.