When ZaZa passed away and it came time to organise his funeral, I honestly couldn’t believe how bad the system was.

You’re already shattered, running on no sleep, trying to process the worst thing that could ever happen to you — and then suddenly you’re hit with pressure, upselling and massive price tags.

I was getting quoted anywhere from $15k to $20k plus. Some places had all these confusing package deals, others added things on bit by bit until the price blew out. Half the time you don’t even know what’s essential and what’s just another mark-up.

One funeral director told me if I really loved my son I should buy the most expensive casket with gold handles. Another basically said, “You’re grieving mate, I’ll just choose the expensive one for you.” One even suggested a vampire-style casket.

I’ll never forget that.

No family should be made to feel guilty or pressured into spending money they don’t have while planning a funeral. You shouldn’t have to go into debt just to say goodbye to someone you love.

After everything was done, I promised myself I’d speak up about it.

I know my experience wasn’t unique either. So many families shared the same stories. That’s why I was proud to put forward written feedback to Consumer Protection WA alongside many other grieving families.

Today I’m genuinely glad to see the WA Government announce the Funeral Pricing Code of Practice will continue.

This is a massive step.

Now funeral directors have to clearly display prices publicly, provide itemised quotes before agreements are signed, and show a basic funeral package so families understand the minimum costs upfront.

That transparency matters.

Because when people are grieving, they deserve honesty — not pressure sales.

No family should be financially smashed at the worst moment of their life.

Big thanks to all the families who spoke up and pushed for change. Your voices mattered.
ZaZa's Legacy - Choking Prevention Australia