Do you know where you want to be laid to rest? With more options available than ever before, it’s important to consider what feels right for you, so your loved ones know your wishes before you go.

You might want to be buried or interned at a traditional cemetery, or have your ashes scattered at a favourite park, beach – or even in space. Other important details to consider include cultural and religious traditions, the laws of the state or country where you would like to be laid to rest, and your budget, as some options are more expensive than others. 

This guide explores traditional and alternative options for your final resting place, so you can make an informed choice before you go. Your Guardian Plan specialist or funeral arranger can assist in letting you know what options are available to your through Guardian Plan.

Your funeral isn’t the only chance for your loved ones to say goodbye in a way that feels personal to you. Where you choose to rest can be just as meaningful – a place that reflects your life, values and passions, while also giving your family a special spot to visit and remember you.

Thinking about your options now means your wishes will be honoured, and your loved ones will have the reassurance that they’re saying farewell in a way that truly feels right for you.

Cemeteries are the most common choice for burials in Australia – but they’re not the only option. You can apply for permission to be buried on private property, such as your own land or that of a family member or friend. Burials generally aren’t permitted in public places, like botanic gardens or bushland, although you may be able to scatter your ashes in them – see the next section for more information.

Sea burials are also an option, but require a special permit from the federal government. You must have a valid reason for being buried at sea, such as being an avid fisher, keen surfer or navy veteran.

For those looking to leave a lasting legacy, you might want to explore donating your body to science or medicine, to be used for medical research, surgical training, or organ donation – helping to save lives or contribute to scientific advancements. You need to arrange this in advance, as this decision can’t be made for you after you’ve passed. 

If you would like to be cremated, there are many meaningful ways to lay your ashes to rest. Some people opt for a traditional burial or interment, while others would like their ashes to be scattered in a special spot – whether that’s a family property, a favourite beach or a local park. Can’t decide? You might want to have your ashes scattered in a few different places – it’s entirely up to you.

If you’re considering having your ashes scattered on private land that you don’t own, you’ll need to get permission from the owner and any other relevant parties. For public places, your funeral specialist or local council can guide you on whether you need permission, and any other regulations you might need to follow.

You may also wish to have your ashes scattered in a meaningful location overseas, such as an ancestral home or a favourite place like Paris or New York. Some people even choose a destination they always dreamed of visiting but never had the chance to. In Australia, it is legal to take cremated ashes overseas in accordance with specific regulations, but each country has its own rules.*

* Please ensure you check with the local governments on approvals for internments and scattering of your ashes.

Looking for something completely different? More Australians and people around the world are choosing unconventional places to be laid to rest.

For ocean lovers, some companies now create artificial reef balls – concrete structures that mimic natural reefs and provide habitats for marine life. Ashes can be mixed into the concrete before the reef ball is placed on the ocean floor, where it becomes home to fish, coral and other marine species.

If you’d rather take to the skies, there are options to send your ashes into the air in a spectacular fireworks display or even launch them into space and rest among the stars.

Memorial diamonds are an increasingly popular choice for many people. This process transforms ashes into beautiful lab-grown diamonds, which your loved ones can keep forever.