FAQs
- Managing interment rights and burial sites
- Approving and maintaining monuments and memorials
- Protecting heritage and culturally significant graves
- Respecting the diverse religious and cultural needs of the community
- Ensuring the health and safety of workers and visitors
What is the purpose of the Cemetery Policy?
The Cemetery Policy sets out how Cessnock City Council manages and operates the cemeteries under its care, control and management.
It provides a consistent framework for:
The policy helps ensure Council meets its legal obligations as a licensed cemetery operator in NSW.
Why is Council updating its Cemetery Policy?
Council reviews its policies regularly to ensure they remain current and compliant with legislation.
The draft Cemetery Policy updates legislative references and aligns with recent amendments to the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2013 (NSW) and Cemeteries and Crematoria Regulation 2022 (NSW), as well as the latest cemetery licence conditions issued by Cemeteries & Crematoria NSW.
The updated policy also clarifies Council’s administrative and operational processes.
Which cemeteries does this Policy apply to?
The policy applies to all cemeteries managed or operated by Cessnock City Council.
Does the draft policy change burial or interment rights?
No. The draft policy does not change existing Perpetual Interment Rights already granted by Council.
It reaffirms Council’s 2018 decision not to offer renewable interment rights and clarifies the conditions that apply to perpetual interment rights, including transfer or bequest arrangements.
Will there be changes to fees for cemetery services?
Not as part of this policy review.
Cemetery fees and charges are reviewed annually through Council’s Fees and Charges schedule, which is reviewed each year alongside the Operational Plan and Budget
Does this policy affect existing monuments or graves?
No. The policy does not require any changes to existing monuments, graves or interment sites.
It provides guidance for new or altered monuments to ensure they comply with Australian Standards (AS 4204-2019) and maintain safety and structural integrity.