Funeral Workers, also known as Funeral Directors, play a crucial role in preparing bodies for viewing and burial, arranging and conducting funerals, and providing other specialized funeral services. These professionals have a level of skill commensurate with their qualifications and experience.

Indicative Skill Level:

The occupation of Funeral Director in Australia requires a level of skill equivalent to an AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma, or Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In New Zealand, a NZQF Diploma (ANZSCO Skill Level 2) is required. However, at least three years of relevant experience can substitute for the formal qualifications. In some cases, additional on-the-job training and experience may be necessary, and registration or licensing may be required.

The occupation of Funeral Workers nec (Not Elsewhere Classified) in Australia requires an AQF Certificate III with at least two years of on-the-job training or an AQF Certificate IV (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In New Zealand, a NZQF Level 4 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 3) is required. Similar to Funeral Directors, relevant experience can substitute for formal qualifications, and additional training or experience may be necessary. Registration or licensing may also be required.

Tasks Include:

• Interviewing families and associates of the deceased to assist with funeral arrangements, such as selecting a coffin, determining the type of service, and publishing death notices.
• Providing advice on funeral costs and welfare provisions.
• Collecting bodies from mortuaries.
• Ensuring the issuance of death certificates, processing burial and cremation certificates, and meeting other legal requirements.
• Preparing bodies for viewing and burial, including washing, draining body fluids, applying padding and cosmetics, dressing bodies, and placing them in coffins.
• Liaising with clergy, cemetery staff, and crematorium staff.
• Coordinating the movement of coffins and funeral cars, arranging floral displays, and collecting attendance and tribute cards.
• Arranging the placement of coffins at funeral sites, and organizing floral displays and lighting.
• Keeping records and accounts of transactions and services performed.
• May be involved in arranging the construction of memorials and the disposal of ashes.

Occupations:

• 451311 Funeral Director
• 451399 Funeral Workers nec

451311 Funeral Director

Alternative Titles: Mortician, Undertaker

A Funeral Director plans and coordinates arrangements for funerals based on the wishes of the deceased or their relatives. Registration or licensing may be required for this occupation. The skill level required for this role is 2.

451399 Funeral Workers nec

This occupation group covers Funeral Workers not elsewhere classified. Registration or licensing may be required. The skill level required for this role is 3. Occupations within this group include Embalmer and Funeral Director's Assistant.

Funeral Workers play a vital role in providing compassionate and professional funeral services. Their expertise in preparing bodies, arranging funeral details, and ensuring legal requirements are met is essential during a difficult time for families and loved ones. The skills and qualifications required for these occupations demonstrate the level of professionalism and care that Funeral Workers bring to their roles.