Aboriginal cremation indigenous Australia

Prior to European arrival, Aboriginal funeral practices varied considerably across Australia. In the Sydney region, British settlers noted that cremation and burial were the most common methods of disposal. New evidence from Lake Mungo in Western New South Wales shows that indigenous Australians were cremating their dead at least 40,000 years ago. This is the oldest evidence of a human cremation.

Aboriginal cremation Australia

During the 1801-1802 expedition to Tasmania, Nicolas Baudin noticed that ashes or calcined bones were carefully preserved and carried about by some people. Later accounts describe ashes and relics being kept in little skin pouches, often hung around the neck of close relatives. In the past and in modern day Australia, Aboriginal communities have used both burial and cremation to lay their dead to rest.

Cremation and Aboriginal remembrance

Traditionally, some indigenous Australian groups buried their loved ones in two stages. First, they would leave them on an elevated platform outside for several months. Then, once only the bones were left, they would take them and paint them with red ochre. The painted bones could then be buried, placed in a significant location in the natural landscape, or carried with the family as a token of remembrance.

Todays Aboriginal funeral

However, in modern Australia, people with indigenous Australian heritage are more likely to opt for a standard burial or cremation, combined with elements of the Aboriginals culture and ceremonies.

Aboriginal funeral culture

Because of the wide variation in the indigenous Australian cultures, modern funerals can take many different forms. For non-indigenous people attending an indigenous Australian funeral, it is advisable to speak to a friend or family member of the person who has died to confirm the dress code. It is likely, however, that smart, clean clothing in subdued colours will be appropriate. Be aware that as a non-Aboriginal person, you may not be invited to observe or participate in certain ceremonies and rituals, though this differs between communities. If you are present during a traditional song or dance, it is appropriate to stay respectfully silent, unless told otherwise.