Baby & Child Funeral Support in Western Australia
We understand that losing a baby or child is one of the most devastating experiences anyone can face. This page provides gentle guidance about the practical arrangements that need to be made, the financial support available, and the caring organisations that can help you through this time.
There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye to your baby or child. Take your time, and know that we are here to support you whenever you are ready.
You Don't Have to Go Through This Alone
Free, compassionate support is available right now — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
24/7 bereavement support for miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal and infant loss. Free counselling, peer support, and the Hospital to Home program for newly bereaved parents.
Free counselling from bereaved parent counsellors, support groups, care packages, and cuddle cots provided to hospitals across Australia.
Volunteer professional photographers who come to the hospital to create precious photographs of your baby at no charge. Ask your midwife or hospital social worker to arrange this.
Speak to a maternal child health nurse. Available 7am to midnight AEST, 7 days a week. Free video call option available.
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. If you or your partner are struggling to cope, please reach out.
Financial Support Available
While nothing can ease the pain of losing a child, financial support is available to help cover funeral costs and living expenses during this time. Your hospital social worker can help you understand and apply for these payments — don't hesitate to ask them.
Stillborn Baby Payment
A lump sum payment from Services Australia for families who have experienced a stillbirth. This payment can help cover funeral costs and other expenses.
Eligibility: Your baby was delivered at 20 weeks gestation or later, or weighed 400 grams or more. Your combined family income must be $77,177 or less for the 6 months following the delivery. You must claim within 52 weeks of the delivery date.
How to claim: Online through your myGov account linked to Centrelink, or call the Child Bereavement and Double Orphan Pension helpdesk on 13 61 50. You will need a Proof of Birth declaration completed by the doctor or midwife who attended the birth.
Parental Leave Pay (Alternative Option)
If your baby was stillborn, you may be eligible for Parental Leave Pay instead of the Stillborn Baby Payment. Parental Leave Pay provides up to 24 weeks of payments at the national minimum wage — which may total significantly more than the lump sum. You cannot receive both for the same baby, so it's worth understanding which option suits your circumstances before claiming.
Parental Leave Pay has different eligibility requirements, including a work test (you must have worked at least 330 hours in 10 of the 13 months before the birth). Your hospital social worker or a Services Australia staff member can help you compare both options and choose the one that provides more support for your situation.
Family Tax Benefit Bereavement Payment
If you were already receiving Family Tax Benefit for a child who has passed away, the payment may continue for up to 14 weeks from the date of death. This can be received as a lump sum or as fortnightly payments. You may also receive the Newborn Supplement as part of this payment.
Contact Services Australia on 13 61 50 (Child bereavement helpdesk) to discuss your eligibility.
Neonatal Death (Baby Who Died Shortly After Birth)
If your baby was born alive but passed away shortly after birth, different payments may apply. Depending on your circumstances, your family may be eligible for Parental Leave Pay (up to 24 weeks), Family Tax Benefit bereavement payment (14 weeks), and Parenting Payment (up to 14 weeks). You may be able to receive more than one of these payments.
Your hospital social worker can help. They can explain all available payments, help you complete the paperwork, and connect you with support services. They do this regularly and understand the process. If you've already left hospital, you can still contact the hospital's social work department — they will be happy to help.
Funeral Costs for Babies and Children
Funeral costs for babies and children are typically lower than adult funerals. At Greenfields Funerals, we believe every life — no matter how brief — deserves to be honoured with dignity. We are here to help you create a meaningful farewell that feels right for your family, regardless of your financial situation.
What You Should Know About Costs
Crematorium fees are often waived or significantly reduced for infant cremations at Perth's Metropolitan Cemeteries Board facilities, including Karrakatta, Fremantle, Pinnaroo, and Rockingham. Funeral directors typically reduce their professional fees for baby and child services as well.
A simple, dignified cremation service for a baby can be arranged from around $1,500 to $3,000 depending on your choices. This can include transfer of your baby into our care, a small coffin or casket, all necessary paperwork and permits, cremation, and return of ashes.
For families who would like a chapel service or ceremony, the cost is typically between $3,000 and $5,000. This includes the arrangements above plus chapel or venue hire, a celebrant, and coordination of the farewell.
Every family's situation is different. Payment plans are available, and the Stillborn Baby Payment or Parental Leave Pay may cover some or all of the costs. There is never any pressure to choose a particular type of service — we will give you a clear, written understanding of costs before any decisions are made.
Your Choices and Options
There is no single right way to farewell your baby or child. Some families want a ceremony with friends and extended family; others want something completely private. Some find comfort in ritual and tradition; others prefer simplicity. All of these choices are valid, and we will support whatever feels right for you.
Cremation
Cremation is the most common choice for baby funerals in Perth. Your baby's ashes can be returned to you in a small urn or keepsake container, scattered at a meaningful place, or placed in a memorial garden at one of Perth's cemeteries. Many families find comfort in keeping their baby's ashes close to them at home. Some families choose to scatter ashes at a later date when they feel ready — there is no time pressure.
Burial
Some families prefer a burial with a graveside service. Perth's cemeteries have dedicated areas for babies and children, including purpose-designed memorial gardens. These sections are peaceful, gentle spaces created with bereaved families in mind. A burial provides a permanent place to visit, which some families find comforting over time.
Service Options
There are many ways to say goodbye. You might choose a chapel service at one of Perth's cremation facilities, a small ceremony at our Port Kennedy or Bunbury chapel, a gathering at home or in a park, a blessing at your church or place of worship, or a private family-only farewell. Some families prefer no formal service at all — just a quiet, private goodbye at the hospital. We can help you think through what might feel meaningful, without any pressure to decide quickly.
Keepsakes and Memory Making
Creating tangible memories of your baby can be deeply important — both now and in the years to come. We can help arrange hand and foot prints, a lock of hair, photographs (through Heartfelt, who provide free professional photography), and other precious keepsakes. Many families choose to include special items in the casket — a soft toy, a blanket, letters, or something meaningful to the family. Your hospital may also help with memory-making before the funeral.
Culturally and Religiously Specific Arrangements
We understand that different cultural and religious traditions have particular requirements for the care and farewell of babies and children. Whether your family observes Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, Aboriginal, or other cultural practices, we will work with your family and community leaders to ensure everything is done with respect and according to your traditions. Please let us know your needs and we will accommodate them.
Legal Requirements in Western Australia
Understanding the legal requirements can feel overwhelming at this time. Here is a clear summary of what applies in Western Australia. We handle all the paperwork and legal requirements on your family's behalf — you don't need to navigate this alone.
Babies Born at 20 Weeks or More (or Weighing 400g+)
In Western Australia, if your baby was born at 20 weeks gestation or later — or weighed 400 grams or more at birth — the following requirements apply:
- The birth must be registered with WA Births, Deaths and Marriages
- A birth certificate can be obtained (which will note the stillbirth)
- The baby must be buried in a cemetery or cremated — this is a legal requirement
- A funeral director manages all paperwork, permits, and cremation or burial arrangements
We handle all of this for you. When you're ready to contact us, we'll explain what's needed and take care of every requirement so you can focus on your family.
Early Pregnancy Loss (Before 20 Weeks)
If your pregnancy loss occurred before 20 weeks gestation, formal registration is not legally required in Western Australia. However, many parents still choose to acknowledge their baby with a ceremony, cremation, or burial. Your options include:
- A Recognition of Pregnancy certificate may be available through your hospital
- You can choose to have a cremation, burial, or memorial ceremony
- Some families arrange a private farewell at home or another meaningful location
- Your hospital can advise on options for care and arrangements
Whatever you choose, your grief is valid and your baby matters. We are here to help you arrange a farewell if that is what you need.
What Happens Next — A Gentle Guide
When you're ready — whether that is immediately, in a few days, or longer — these are the steps involved. There is no rush, and your hospital will ensure your baby is cared for while you take the time you need.
Talk to Your Hospital Social Worker or Midwife
They can explain your options, provide emotional support, and help you understand what needs to happen. They can also arrange Heartfelt photography, help with Centrelink paperwork, and connect you with Red Nose and Bears of Hope support. Most WA hospitals — including King Edward Memorial Hospital, Fiona Stanley Hospital, St John of God Murdoch, St John of God Midland, Joondalup Health Campus, and Rockingham General Hospital — have experienced social workers and bereavement midwives who support bereaved families.
Spend Time with Your Baby
Take as much time as you need. Many WA hospitals have cuddle cots — small cooling units that allow you to keep your baby with you in your room for an extended period. This time is precious. You might like to dress your baby, hold them, introduce them to family members, or simply be together quietly. There is no right amount of time — take what you need.
Create Memories
Consider having professional photographs taken through Heartfelt (ask your midwife to arrange this — the service is free). Make hand and foot prints, keep a lock of hair, and choose special items to include with your baby. Some families write letters or cards, or choose a particular outfit or blanket. Your hospital may have a memory-making kit available. These keepsakes often become deeply treasured over time.
Contact a Funeral Director When You're Ready
When you feel ready, call us on 1300 69 79 89. We'll speak with you gently, answer your questions, and explain your options. We can also liaise directly with your hospital so you don't have to coordinate between us. There is no pressure to make immediate decisions — we understand that you need time, and we will move at your pace.
Plan the Farewell Together
We'll help you plan whatever type of farewell feels right — from a simple, private goodbye to a gathering with family and friends. We'll explain costs clearly, handle all legal paperwork, coordinate with the cemetery, and take care of every detail. You'll have a single point of contact throughout — someone who knows your family and your baby's name.
Support for Fathers and Partners
Fathers and partners often carry an enormous weight — grieving for the baby while also trying to support their partner. Society sometimes expects you to be the "strong one," but you are grieving too. Your pain is real and it matters.
It is okay to ask for help. It is okay to cry. It is okay to not know what to do.
- Red Nose offers bereavement support specifically for fathers and partners: 1300 308 307 (24/7)
- Bears of Hope provides counselling for both parents, including couples sessions: 1300 11 HOPE (4673)
- MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978 — counselling, support and referrals for men
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
- Open Arms (Veterans and Families): 1800 011 046 — if you have a military connection
For Grandparents, Siblings and Extended Family
The loss of a baby or child affects the entire family. Grandparents may be carrying a double grief — for the baby and for their own child's pain. Partners' parents grieve too. Siblings, even very young ones, can sense that something profound has happened and may need gentle, age-appropriate support.
Red Nose and Bears of Hope both offer resources for extended family, including age-appropriate books for explaining loss to young children, information for grandparents, and guidance for friends who want to help but don't know how. Red Nose's Grief and Loss website has a library of resources organised by relationship to the baby.
If your family includes other children, be honest with them in age-appropriate ways. Young children understand more than we often give them credit for. Using clear, simple language — "the baby has died" rather than euphemisms like "gone to sleep" — helps children process what has happened without confusion or fear.
We're Here When You're Ready
There is no rush. When you need us, we are available any time — day or night. We'll listen, answer your questions, and help you through this with gentleness and care.
1300 69 79 89Available 24/7 • No obligation to make immediate decisions
Port Kennedy: 4/13 Fielden Way • Bunbury: 105 Spencer Street
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there financial help for stillborn baby funerals?
Yes. The Stillborn Baby Payment from Services Australia is a lump sum of $4,326.57. Alternatively, parents may be eligible for Parental Leave Pay for up to 24 weeks at the national minimum wage, which may total significantly more depending on your circumstances. You cannot receive both for the same baby, so it's worth comparing the two options. Many Perth crematoriums also waive or reduce cremation fees for infant services. Your hospital social worker can help you understand your options and complete the paperwork.
How much does a baby funeral cost in Australia?
Baby and infant funeral costs are typically much lower than adult funerals. Many funeral directors reduce or waive their professional fees, and crematorium fees are often waived for babies. A simple, dignified cremation can be arranged from around $1,500 to $3,000. A service with a chapel ceremony is typically $3,000 to $5,000. We provide a clear, written quote before any decisions are made, and payment plans are available if needed.
Do I have to have a funeral for a stillborn baby?
In Western Australia, if your baby was born at 20 weeks gestation or more — or weighed 400 grams or more — the baby must be buried in a cemetery or cremated. This is a legal requirement. For pregnancy losses before 20 weeks, formal burial or cremation is not legally required, but many families still choose to have a ceremony and farewell. Whatever you choose, we can help.
Can I take my baby home from the hospital before the funeral?
In some circumstances, yes. Some families choose to bring their baby home for a period before the funeral, particularly with the help of a cuddle cot (a small cooling device). Your hospital and funeral director can advise on what is possible and help you make arrangements. There are also portable cuddle cots that can be used at home.
How long can I spend with my baby at the hospital?
As long as you need. Most WA hospitals have cuddle cots that allow you to keep your baby in your room for an extended period — often several days. Your midwife or bereavement team will support you in having as much time as you need. Don't feel rushed by anyone. This time with your baby is important.
What support is available after losing a baby?
Several organisations provide free, ongoing support. Red Nose (1300 308 307) offers 24/7 bereavement support, professional counselling, peer support from other bereaved parents, and their Hospital to Home program for newly bereaved families. Bears of Hope (1300 11 HOPE) provides counselling, support groups, and care packages. Heartfelt (1800 583 768) offers free professional photography. Your hospital social worker can connect you with local grief counselling and support groups in Perth.
Can older children attend a baby's funeral?
Yes, and many child bereavement experts recommend including siblings when possible. Children who are included in farewells often cope better in the long run than those who are excluded. However, every child and family is different. If you're unsure, Red Nose can provide guidance on age-appropriate ways to include children. We can also help create a service environment that is gentle and suitable for young children.
What if I can't afford a funeral for my baby?
Please don't let cost be a barrier. The Stillborn Baby Payment ($4,326.57) or Parental Leave Pay can help cover funeral expenses. Crematorium fees are often waived for babies. We offer reduced fees for infant services and payment plans when needed. If you are experiencing financial hardship, please tell us — we will find a way to help you farewell your baby with dignity.
Helpful Resources
- Red Nose — Grief & Loss: rednosegriefandloss.org.au — 1300 308 307 (24/7)
- Bears of Hope: bearsofhope.org.au — 1300 11 HOPE (4673)
- Stillbirth Foundation Australia: stillbirthfoundation.org.au
- Heartfelt Photography: heartfelt.org.au — 1800 583 768
- Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline: 1800 882 436 (7am–midnight AEST)
- MensLine Australia: mensline.org.au — 1300 789 978
- Services Australia — Bereavement: What help is there when a child dies — 13 61 50
- WA Births, Deaths and Marriages: wa.gov.au