Released 17/10/2018
A review of the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2003 is underway to identify regulatory changes that will ensure management of cemeteries in the ACT meets the needs of all Canberrans.
This legislation sets out the framework for burials and cremations in the ACT. An inquiry into the management of ACT cemeteries in 2017 recommended the Act be reviewed and that the ACT Government continue to monitor community preferences.
“The review will explore a diverse range of burial, cremation and similar services to meet the needs of all Canberrans now and into the future as emerging and alternative practices are introduced,” said Minister for City Services, Chris Steel.
“We understand that this is a sensitive topic and that is why we want to have a serious conversation with the community about the sustainability of our cemeteries.
“We will be asking the community if the current burial and cremation services in the ACT meet the needs of all religious and culturally diverse backgrounds and if they are interested in alternative burial and cremation practices.
“The review will also look at the sustainability of cemeteries and crematoria in the ACT, with consideration to be given to the current tenure of burial sites.”
Renewable tenure refers to the process of purchasing rights for use of a burial site (or other interment site) for a specified period of time only, rather than forever, creating the opportunity to provide ongoing cemetery capacity.
Renewable tenure of burial sites is not a new concept and is being adopted widely, including in NSW, WA and SA where the tenure periods for burial sites start at 25 years and range up to 99 years.
“Government is not proposing that any renewable tenure scheme would apply retrospectively. There will be no changes to the tenure arrangements of existing burial sites and, if a renewable tenure scheme is introduced, there will still be the option to purchase a site in perpetuity,” Minister Steel said.
Expressions of interest are now open for participation in focus groups, or you can complete a survey online at www.yoursay.act.gov.au or in hard copy at ACT public library branches to inform the review. Consultation closes 10 December 2018.
- Statement ends -
Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases
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