Backyard embalming and coffin-swapping scandal hits Australia
Queensland funeral industry is under siege after a 9 News report suggested malpractices like backyard embalming, coffin-swapping and fraud is commonplace.
Brian Broughan, a 30-year veteran of the industry, says there’s a rise in rouge operators undercutting reputable, trained funeral directors in the Sunshine State.
"It's happening...There are body preparations, be that embalming or basic preparations, taking place in their garages because they don't have the facilities," Mr Broughan said.
Mr Broughman outlined scores of cost-saving practices by dodgy funeral operators including incorrect embalming processes and switching to cheaper coffins. He also claims funds are being re-channelled and misappropriated.
"They might have bought a new car," he said.
What are your thoughts? Did you realise this was a problem?