A 102-year-old Sydney woman has outlived her 25-year burial plot contract at Waverley Cemetery, sparking a review of cemetery policies for long-lived residents.
The incident occurred earlier this year when Dorothy Jackson, who purchased her plot at 77, was informed that her contract had expired. She was initially asked to pay $6,000 to extend the contract for another five years.
Unexpected Longevity Challenges Cemetery Policy
Ms Jackson’s daughter, Ann Cooper, expressed surprise at the situation. She stated that her mother had not expected to live beyond the contract’s term when she initially purchased the plot.
Waverley Cemetery, located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, is home to over 100,000 burials, including those of notable Australians. The cemetery is facing space constraints, which has led to the implementation of renewable interment rights.
After being contacted about the issue, Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos announced that the council would waive the extension fee for Ms Jackson. Ms Masselos acknowledged that this case highlighted the need to review cemetery policies, especially considering the increasing number of people living to advanced ages.
Ms Masselos explained that these rights help ensure that burial sites are actively used and not forgotten. The cemetery has also introduced niche walls for urns, which already have a waiting list.
Broader Cemetery Management Challenges
Ben Kelly, CEO of the Australasian Cemeteries & Crematoria Association, noted that unused burial plots are a common issue in cemeteries across the country. He stated that many families are unaware they own plots, leading to inefficient use of cemetery land.
Kelly suggested that fixed-term contracts for burial plots are one way to manage limited cemetery space effectively. He advised plot owners to check their contract terms and contact the cemetery if a term is nearing expiration.
Published 26-Aug-2024
