Following the cremation, the ashes are typically available for collection at one of our regional offices within 2-3 business days. Please contact our customer care team to make a collection appointment prior to visiting the office.
Ashes can be collected from Altona Memorial Park, Fawkner Memorial Park or Lilydale Memorial Park.
How do I know if I need to collect?
When arranging the cremation, you will have nominated whether you will collect the ashes, or whether the funeral director will collect them on your behalf.
If you have nominated your funeral director to collect the ashes on your behalf, they will make arrangements with you directly. If you have nominated to pick up the cremated remains yourself, please read on to understand the collection process.
If you are unsure, check with your funeral director, or refer to the Application for Cremation Authorisation paperwork.
Who can collect the cremated remains?
Only the the person who signed the cremation paperwork can collect the ashes. To see who the authorised person is, check the Application for Cremation Authorisation paperwork.
If you have nominated to collect the ashes, but would like to give permission for another person to collect on your behalf, you will need to provide a copy of your photo ID, and written permission with your signature. Contact us for more information.
What happens if I do not collect?
GMCT is required to hold the cremated remains for at least 12 months following the cremation. You can find more about this law here.
Please contact us to arrange a collection appointment.
What happens when I collect the remains?
Please bring a copy of your driver’s licence or current photo ID. There is nothing more important than making sure the right person collects the right ashes, and we will need to verify your identity in order to proceed with the collection.
When you arrive at the office you will come into a private appointment room where a member of the customer care team will step you through the process. This can be a difficult time, and we encourage you to take your time.
During this appointment, you will receive a carry bag that contains a cardboard presentation box. Inside this box is a simple plastic urn, and you will need to inspect the label on the urn to confirm the correct ashes are being collected.
Following the collection, you may wish to consider memorialisation of your loved one through purchasing an ornamental urn, or arranging a memorial or scattering.
What happens next?
Once you have collected the ashes, our team are here to help with care and guidance as you plan the next steps.
If you wish to create a memorial, order a plaque, or seek advice about the scattering of ashes, we can provide professional advice and helpful information.
Some families may find it difficult to decide on the next steps. Did you know, you can ask us to split the ashes into portions so some can be memorialised, some scattered, some kept by family members and so on.
If you wish to take the ashes to a meaningful place overseas, we can help by providing the necessary documentation to clear customs.