Media Release - Direction for funerals and associated ceremonies

Following direction from the Civil Contingencies Authority, it is now necessary to put in place different arrangements for funerals to further protect the community from the risk of COVID-19. This will take effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.

It is recognised this may have additional emotional impact on the family and friends of the deceased, but these necessary measures are being taken in extraordinary circumstances.

Arrangements applicable to all funeral and other associated ceremonies
The following directions must be followed in relation to the arrangements for any funeral service, ceremony, gathering or burial:

• Attendance at a funeral is limited to a maximum of 10 persons (not including officials or those required to support the ceremony proceedings).
• Social distancing must be maintained (people must be two metres apart at all times) unless from the same household.
• Hand sanitiser must be used when entering and leaving the building.
• It is strongly recommended that face-coverings are worn - the service official may remove their mask during the ceremony at their discretion.
• Those who are medically vulnerable or at risk of infection should be strongly discouraged from attending.
• Anyone who is confirmed to currently be positive to COVID-19, awaiting results of a COVID-19 test, or in self-isolation, must not attend a funeral.
• Anyone who is unwell with a fever, respiratory symptoms or other COVID-19 symptoms must not attend.

Please note that the above restrictions are put in place in order to protect our community from further infection.

There are currently no restrictions on where the ceremony can be held.

This direction is subject to review at any time and further updates may be made as new details or evidence emerges.