Frequently Asked Questions
These answers cover common questions when someone passes away, including funeral arrangements, religious ceremonies, fees, documents and international repatriation.
When Someone Passes Away
What Should We Do First After a Death in Hospital or Aged Care?
Call On Sum and tell us which hospital or aged care home your loved one is in. Staff will usually assist with the initial procedure, and we will contact the relevant people to arrange transfer and mortuary care.
What Happens If Someone Passes Away at Home?
A family doctor, locum doctor or relevant medical service will generally need to confirm the death. Sudden or unexplained deaths must follow the emergency procedure. Once the required steps are complete, call On Sum to arrange the transfer.
When Might the Coroner Be Involved?
The coroner may be involved after a sudden or accidental death, when the cause is unclear, or while medical certification is being considered. Tell us about any notice the family has received.
Funeral Arrangements
Must Cremation, Burial and Ceremony Details Be Decided Immediately?
Contact, documents and transfer can usually be handled first. Cremation or burial, religious ceremonies, the venue and funeral products can be discussed afterwards.
Can On Sum Arrange Chinese Traditional or Religious Ceremonies?
Yes. We arrange Chinese traditional, Buddhist, Taoist, Christian, Catholic and multicultural funerals.
Can We Communicate in Cantonese, Mandarin or English?
Yes. We communicate in Cantonese, Mandarin or English so elders and overseas relatives can understand the arrangements.
Fees and Documents
Will We Receive a Written Quote?
Yes. The written quote separately lists On Sum services, funeral products and third-party charges such as the crematorium, cemetery or venue.
What Information Can We Prepare Before Calling?
Tell us where your loved one is located, the family's contact details, and whether the death occurred in a hospital, aged care home, at home or overseas. Cremation or burial, religious ceremonies and the funeral date can be discussed later.
How Long Do Legal or Government Documents Usually Take?
Timing for documents and cremation or burial approval depends on the relevant authorities. We explain the expected next step as information becomes available.
Transfer of the Deceased
Can On Sum Arrange Cremation and Burial?
Yes. We first understand the family's wishes, then arrange the crematorium, cemetery, venue and related documents.
Can On Sum Arrange Interstate or International Repatriation?
Yes. We can repatriate the deceased overseas or receive the deceased in Australia for cremation or burial.
Can On Sum Arrange Viewing, Preparation, Dressing and Care of the Deceased?
Yes. We arrange care, preparation, dressing and viewing according to the venue and the family's wishes.
Still Have Questions?
Call 0421 793 263 or email emilychoy@onsumfunerals.com.au. We will explain the next step for your situation.