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- From Black To Bright: Funeral Association Marks 90 Years With A Modern New Name
From Black To Bright: Funeral Association Marks 90 Years With A Modern New Name
After 90 years of guiding Australians through loss, the Australian Funeral Directors Association (AFDA) is entering a new era – relaunching in 2025 as Funerals Australia.
The change reflects a shift in the way Australians want to say goodbye. Once steeped in formality, tradition, and religion, today’s funerals are becoming vibrant, personal and meaningful celebrations of life.
New research commissioned by Funerals Australia and conducted by McCrindle in July 2025 shows the depth of that transformation. Australians now see the most valued elements of a funeral as:
- Reflecting the life and personality of the person who has died
- Bringing people together to share memories
- Creating a sense of closure and support
Less emphasis is placed on religious content or formal customs, yet most Australians still say they feel unequipped to organise a funeral.
While nearly 70% of people intend to plan their own funeral, many don’t know where to begin. And that’s where professional guidance matters more than ever.
Funerals Australia says that while farewells have changed, the role of the funeral director remains essential.
“Funerals today are deeply personal but that doesn’t mean they’re simple. Families still need someone they trust to take care of the details, provide emotional support, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Australians want both meaning and professionalism and that’s exactly what our members offer.”
Dale Gilson, CEO, Funerals Australia, said the rebrand to Funerals Australia represents both a modern public identity and a continued commitment to high standards, accredited training, and ethical practice.
“Funerals Australia is not just a new name — it’s a promise. Funerals Australia members are qualified professionals who uphold national standards and offer compassionate, expert guidance at every step.”
What Australians want from modern funerals:
- Celebration over ceremony – from backyards to beaches, people want unique, joyful goodbyes
- Cremation on the rise – with ashes scattered, memorialised in jewellery, or kept close in urns
- Sustainable options matter – green burials, water cremation, biodegradable coffins, and natural cemeteries are in demand
- Technology is transforming the experience – with livestreaming, VR tributes, custom keepsakes, and digital memorials becoming part of the norm
- Above all: professionalism – Australians value experience, empathy and knowledge from their funeral provider
The new Funerals Australia website is now live at www.funeralsaustralia.org.au
offering:
- Resources for planning and pre-planning a funeral
- Help finding a qualified funeral director
- Support tools for grief and remembrance
For more information or comment, please call Dale Gilson, CEO, Funerals Australia, ph: 03 9859 9966.
Taken from the Funerals Australia Media Release on November 3, 2025
