Frequently asked questions
Trying to make decisions about your own burial, or that of a loved one, can be quite confusing. To help we've compiled some answers to often asked questions about our cemeteries.
What is an interment right?
This is an exclusive right granted by Council for use of a burial or memorial site. The holder of the Right of Interment has the authority to:
- determine who can be buried in the grave or memorial site,
- request the installation of headstones, inscriptions or memorials on the site.
An interment right was known as a burial licence or right of burial.
What happens to a reserved plot/site when I am deceased?
If the plot will not be used by the interment right holder/s, the right becomes part of the estate. It is then managed by the executor.
Does the Interment Right holder own the land where the grave/interment site is?
No, the interment right holder does not own the land where the grave/interment site is located. The ownership of the land, wall and garden remains with Council. The Interment Right holder owns the memorial. The entitlement is limited to use and access of the interment site described in the 'right of interment'.
Can anyone apply to have an interment into a reserved plot?
No. Only the interment right holder (or appointed agent, eg funeral director) can authorise an interment in a reserved plot. An application must be made for an order of interment before interment takes place.
How many interments can take place in a grave site?
You will need to check with Council for further information.
Can the ashes of a cremated person/s be placed in a grave?
Yes. As well as one burial, ashes can also be interred into a single grave. Consideration is given to the number of names shown on the memorial marker. This is usually a maximum of six names.
How do I know the details of the site I would like to reserve?
Visit the Cemetery that you would like to reserve your plot in and select a location. Select a few preferences in case your preferred option is already reserved. Then contact our Cemetery and Memorials team. They can confirm availability and any conditions and restrictions that may be relevant.
Or you can ask them to find the closest available site near to a loved one.
On confirmation of the site you will need to fill out an application for perpetual interment right(PDF, 301KB) and pay the relevant fees.
What do I do if I have not reserved a site and need a plot for immediate use?
Your Funeral Director will liaise with us and make all the necessary arrangements. Any associated costs will be managed by the Funeral Director as a part of their service fees to you.
What is an Application for Order of Interment?
An Application for Order of Interment provides authority for interment to take place. It must be lodged with us before interment takes place. The funeral director will handle this for you. The interment must be carried out by our team. A qualified stonemason can inter ashes when installing a monument in general cemetery sections only.
How do I relinquish a reservation?
You will need to let us know in writing if you would like to relinquish a reservation. To do this you will need to attach the original Certificate of Perpetual Interment Right.
We will then process and refund the amount already paid less 20 per cent administration costs.
How do I go about making funeral arrangements?
Council has no involvement in funeral arrangements. A funeral director will assist with all the arrangements including any required permits.
Can I pre-pay my Funeral?
For advice on pre-paid Funeral Bonds/Funeral Payment Plans contact a Funeral Director.
How do I engage a Gravedigger?
Your Funeral Director will make arrangements for grave digging with Council's Interment team.