Fair Trading Minister Virginia Judge today announced a review of the information standard designed to protect consumers against excessive funeral costs.

In February 2009, the NSW Government established the standard to ensure consumers were made aware of all the expenses that could accumulate with organising a funeral.

Ms Judge said the standard was designed to protect people at a time when they were very vulnerable and in situations where they may have little or no prior experience.

Under the standard, funeral directors must take a client through the full cost of a basic or economy funeral when discussing funeral arrangement options.

For funerals other than a basic funeral, it is mandatory to give a written quote that clearly explains each item, as well as its cost.

“The review will provide feedback from consumers about their experiences and determine if the standard is meeting the community’s expectations, as well as examine if and where it can be improved,” Ms Judge said.

A recent compliance check in the Sydney, Newcastle, Orange and Wollongong areas found that funeral directors were complying with their obligations.

“While these results are good news for consumers and the industry, I encourage all interested consumers to contribute to the review by relating their personal experiences,” Ms Judge said.

The public has until 17 December to make submissions to the review by email or in writing.

For further information visit the Fair Trading website at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or call 9338 8990.

Consumers can email their submissions to policy@services.nsw.gov.au, or write to the Project Manager, Funeral Information Standard Review, PO Box 972, Parramatta, NSW, 2124.

Comment on the review of the Funeral Information Standard

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