When planning a farewell, understanding the options available can help you make the right decision for your family and your values. Two methods that are often compared are traditional cremation and aquamation. While both result in the return of ashes, they differ in how the process is carried out, the environmental impact, and how widely available they are.
What is cremation?
Cremation is the process of reducing the body to ashes through intense heat. The body is placed in a specialised chamber and exposed to high temperatures, usually between 760°C and 980°C. Over 1.5 to 2 hours, the body is reduced to bone fragments, which are then processed into a fine, grey ash.
Cremation is well-established, widely available in Melbourne, and remains the most common alternative to burial. You can view our current cremation packages here.
What is aquamation?
Aquamation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, is a more recent alternative. It uses a combination of water, heat, and alkali (not flame) to accelerate natural decomposition. The body is placed in a stainless steel chamber filled with a water and alkali solution, heated to around 93°C. Over several hours, the body breaks down, leaving behind bone ash and a sterile liquid.
Aquamation is seen as a gentler process and is promoted for its environmental benefits. However, it is still emerging in Australia and may not yet be widely accessible in Melbourne but we can access the process via facilities located in other states.
Environmental impact
One of the main differences between cremation and aquamation is how they affect the environment.
- Cremation requires significant energy to generate the heat needed and releases emissions, including carbon dioxide and, in some cases, mercury from dental fillings.
- Aquamation uses around 90% less energy and produces no direct emissions. The leftover water is treated and safely returned to the environment.
Families looking for a lower-impact farewell may prefer aquamation, but it’s important to weigh this against availability and cost.
Cost and availability
In Melbourne, cremation remains the most affordable and accessible option. At Just A Simple Cremation, our cremation services start from $2,995, with everything included—transport, documentation, cremation, and return of ashes.
Aquamation is currently more expensive, generally ranging from $4,000-$6000, and is not currently available in Victoria. If you wish to have an aquamation you will have to be transported interstate to SA, NSW or Tasmania to a facility that is licensed to provide this service.
What happens after the process
Both cremation and aquamation result in ashes that are returned to the family.
- Cremation typically produces 2–3kg of coarse, grey ash.
- Aquamation produces a similar volume, but the ash is finer and white in colour.
The ashes can be kept, scattered, or interred—whatever suits your personal or cultural preferences. We also offer guidance on urns and options for memorials if needed. Got a question regarding an eco-friendly option? Reach out to us now.