Smart Guide to Headstones and Grave Markers in Australia

Selecting a headstone or grave marker is one of the most meaningful ways to honour a loved one’s memory. It’s more than stone—it’s a symbol of love, legacy, and life well lived.

At FuneralSmart, we believe families deserve clear, simple, and smart options when it comes to choosing a headstone. Whether you’re planning ahead or arranging a recent loss, this guide is here to help you make informed choices—without the stress or guesswork.

What’s the Difference Between a Headstone and Grave Marker?

Let’s start with the basics.

A headstone is the upright stone monument placed at the head of a grave. It usually includes inscriptions such as the person’s name, dates, and a short tribute.

A grave marker, on the other hand, is any type of marker used to identify a grave. This can include flat plaques, slanted markers, or even temporary nameplates.

The main types include:

Upright headstones (traditional vertical monuments)
Flat markers (also called lawn markers or tablets)
Slant or bevel markers (slightly angled for visibility)
Bronze plaques (mounted on granite or concrete)
Kerbed monuments (full-length grave surrounds)

Understanding your options is the first step in creating a meaningful and lasting memorial.

Types of Headstones Available in Australia

Australian cemeteries offer a wide variety of headstone and marker styles. Choosing the right one depends on personal preference, cultural tradition, cemetery rules, and budget.

1. Upright Headstones

The classic choice for many families.
Made from durable materials like granite or marble.
Plenty of space for inscriptions and customisation.

2. Lawn Markers (Flat or Flush)

Lie flat at ground level.
Typically used in lawn cemeteries with uniform layouts.
Low maintenance and cost-effective.

3. Slant or Bevel Markers

Wedge-shaped with a gentle incline.
Easier to read than flat markers but still modest in size.

4. Bronze Plaques

Clean, modern appearance.
Often used in memorial gardens and returned services areas.
Long-lasting and corrosion-resistant.

5. Kerbed Monuments

Full-length surrounds that frame the entire grave.
Allows for custom design and flower placement.
Often chosen for cultural or religious significance.

What Is the Average Cost of a Headstone in Australia?

Prices for headstones and grave markers can vary widely based on size, material, and craftsmanship.

Here’s a general breakdown:

Type	Estimated Cost (AUD)
Flat Marker	$1,200 – $2,800
Upright Headstone	$3,500 – $7,000
Bronze Plaque	$2,500 – $4,500
Kerbed Monument	$7,000 – $15,000+

Things that affect price:

Stone type (granite is more affordable than marble)
Size and complexity of design
Custom inscriptions or artwork
Delivery and installation fees
Cemetery permit and foundation costs

Want to avoid overpaying? Use FuneralSmart’s comparison tool to match with verified monument providers in your area—without hidden fees.

Popular Materials Used for Headstones

Each material comes with its own aesthetic and long-term durability.

Granite: The most popular material—hard-wearing, weatherproof, and comes in many colours.
Marble: Elegant and traditional, but can deteriorate over time in outdoor environments.
Bronze: Offers a sleek, timeless look; typically used for plaques.
Sandstone or Slate: Historically common, but now less used due to erosion.
Concrete: Often used for base structures or temporary markers.

Smart Tip: Granite is usually the best all-around choice for Australian climates due to its resilience and versatility.

Choosing the Right Inscription

When it comes to inscriptions, simplicity and sentiment go a long way.

Most headstones include:

Full name
Date of birth and death
A personal message, epitaph, or quote

Headstone Wording Examples:

“In loving memory of a cherished soul”
“Forever missed, never forgotten”
“Resting where no shadows fall”
“Beloved husband, father, and friend”

Religious, poetic, and humorous epitaphs are all appropriate depending on your loved one’s personality and values. Keep in mind most cemeteries limit the number of characters, so choose words carefully.

Customising the Headstone Design

Today, headstones can be as simple or as personalised as you like.

Options include:

Portraits or ceramic photos
Laser-etched images or symbols (crosses, flowers, hobbies)
QR codes linking to a digital tribute page
Bespoke fonts and inscription styles
Coloured granite or marble finishes

Some families also opt for bilingual or culturally specific inscriptions to reflect heritage.

Want to design your own? FuneralSmart can connect you with masons who offer online design previews or in-person consultations.

When Can You Install a Headstone?

Most cemeteries recommend waiting at least 6–12 months after burial before installing a permanent headstone. This allows the soil to settle and prevents sinking or shifting.

Some cemeteries may allow earlier installation, especially with cremation plots or lawn markers. Always check the rules before booking installation.

Cemetery Rules and Regulations to Know

Every Australian cemetery has its own guidelines for:

Headstone size and placement
Allowed materials and finishes
Approved stonemasons and installers
Permits and approval process
Cultural/religious allowances

FuneralSmart Tip: Before you order a headstone, contact the cemetery directly or let your supplier handle approvals for you.

How FuneralSmart Makes It Easier

We’re here to take the confusion out of choosing a headstone. With FuneralSmart, you can:

Compare multiple headstone quotes in one place
Find verified local stonemasons
See real reviews and pricing
Get help from our smart support team
Access free tools, guides, and design inspiration

We do the research so you don’t have to.

Final Thoughts

A headstone is a deeply personal tribute—one that lasts for generations. With the right guidance, tools, and support, you can create something beautiful that truly honours your loved one’s legacy.

Ready to get started?

Use FuneralSmart to compare headstone quotes, browse designs, and connect with trusted providers today.