8.3.2 Funeral Benefit for a Deceased Veteran

Funeral Benefit for a Deceased Veteran
This section outlines the eligibility and payment details of a funeral benefit payable to a deceased veteran.

From 1 July 2026, there will be two categories of funeral benefits for eligible veterans and their dependents: a high rate and a low rate. 

High Rate $14,990.43 (indexed)

• Payable based on the above eligibility criteria (section 12 of the MRCA).
• Payable to maximum rate or the actual cost of the funeral (whichever is less).
• Indexed on 1 July each year. 

Low rate $3,000 (fixed)

• Current VEA auto grant entitlements will continue.
• Automatically paid to the estate of veterans in receipt of EDA, Special Rate (TPI only), an Additional Disability allowance as a multiple amputee, and ex-prisoners of war.
• Can be claimed where the veteran:
  • Death was war or defence-caused (within the meaning of the VEA)
  • died in indigent circumstances
  • died in a hospital or other institutions travelling to or from a hospital/institution
  • after discharge from a hospital/institution where they received treatment for a terminal illness
  • while being treated at home for a terminal illness
• Funeral benefits for a dependant who died in indigent circumstances in certain circumstances.