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Planning a funeral can be overwhelming, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are planning a funeral we hope this information can assist you to understand the current restrictions in place for funerals.
Australia’s federal, state and territory governments have all eased restrictions on the number of people that can attend a funeral. See below for any current restrictions on funeral attendance and mask requirements for each state and territory. Updated 16 December 2022.
Anyone can attend a funeral or place of worship. You don't need to be fully vaccinated or show proof of your vaccination status. Density limits no longer apply to funerals and memorials. Masks it is strongly recommended that you wear a face mask on public transport, in indoor public spaces and when you cannot stay 1.5 metres from others. Gathering restrictions density limits no longer apply. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See NSW Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
There are no limits to how many people can attend a funeral in the ACT. Businesses are encouraged to have a COVID-19 Safety Plan to keep guests and employees safe. Masks strongly encouraged to wear a face mask when entering public indoor settings or where it is difficult to maintain physical distancing. Gathering restrictions no limit on number of visitors to a home or informal outdoor gatherings, density limits no longer apply Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See the ACT Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
Density limits no longer apply and you no longer need to show proof of vaccination. Masks still recommended if you're diagnosed with COVID-19 or have symptoms of an acute respiratory infection, if you're a close contact or wherever you can't socially distance Gathering restrictions no limits on visitors in homes. No limit on gatherings in public outdoor spaces. Density limits no longer apply to any venues or events. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See QLD Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
No vaccination requirements or capacity limits in place for funerals or religious ceremonies. Masks recommended for at least 7 days if you have COVID-19 and you need to leave home, you are indoors, or you cannot maintain physical distance, if you are a close contact and you need to leave home, if you are visiting or working in a sensitive setting such as hospitals and aged care facilities. Gathering restrictions density limits no longer apply. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but restrictions but should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See the VIC Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
There are no longer any density limits for funerals. Masks If you have tested positive to COVID-19 or are a close contact, it’s recommended you wear a mask when you are in indoor public places or on public transport. Gathering restrictions There are no limits on how many people can gather in a home or outdoors. To protect yourself and others it is recommended that you stay 1.5 metres apart wherever possible. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See SA Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
There is no limit on the number of people who can attend a funeral in the Northern Territory. Participants at funerals and religious ceremonies must practise physical distancing and proper hygiene measures. Masks recommended in indoor and outdoor settings where physical distancing is not possible. Gathering restrictions There is no limit to how many people can gather indoors or outdoors — but you should keep 1.5 metres from people you do not live with, where possible. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See the NT Government Government website for more information.
No capacity or density limits in place for venues in WA including funerals. Masks not mandated in Western Australia but they should be worn in crowded indoor settings and where physical distancing is not possible. Gathering restrictions all capacity and gathering limits have been lifted. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to prottect those around you. See the WA Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
No capacity or density limits for funerals. However, business owners may choose to use capacity limits as part of their ongoing COVID-19 safety management. In all cases, it's important that physical distancing and hygiene requirements are followed. Masks Wearing a mask indoors is not mandatory but is still recommended, especially where physical distancing is not possible. Gathering restrictions no density or capacity limits in place for gatherings. Close contacts it is no longer mandatory to isolate but you should stay at home and take steps to protect those around you. See the TAS Government website for more information and latest travel advice.
While we understand that it is difficult to limit the number of people who can attend the funeral of your loved one these measures have been introduced to protect your health and to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our communities. AFDA members are absolutely committed to providing a respectful and inclusive farewell despite the strict limitations on physical attendance.
For more information on these restrictions visit the Australian Government Department of Health website www.health.gov.au
All states and territories have now opened their borders for travel, however for the latest travel advice please refer to the government website for the relevant state or territory.
AFDA members continue to maintain the highest levels of hygiene, social distancing practices and overall COVID-19 safety practices. We suggest you check with your funeral director if you have any COVID-19 concerns.
A funeral plays an important part in the mourning process. People need time to mourn the loss of family and friends. A funeral ceremony fills this need and provides people with an important place to share in their grief and help the living say goodbye. There are ways to still include everyone in a funeral, even if they cannot attend in person:
Another option is to plan a memorial at a later date for your loved one when the restrictions on gatherings have been lifted. A memorial can be held in the funeral home or at another location that has significant meaning for your loved one. This will allow you to celebrate and reflect on the life of your loved one with all of your family and friends.
Yes, there has been no change as to your choice of a burial or a cremation.
A funeral can be arranged over the phone or via electronic options such as FaceTime with your funeral director.
There is no difference however there may a time delay due to those attending self-isolating for a period of 14 days.
Family viewing of the deceased may be possible however family members should avoid any contact with the body.
This will be reviewed by your funeral director and discussed with you to explain the various options available.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) health alert
Grief and Bereavement and COVID-19
Funerals in the time of Coronavirus: Thoughts for families by Dr Alan Wolfelt
Condolences in the time of COVID-19: Guidance for conveying your love and support by Dr Alan Wolfelt