Red tape to be cut from cemeteries and crematorium

Planning reforms to fast-track minor works in cemeteries across the state, come into effect from today, scrapping more planning red tape.

The amendment to the Transport and Infrastructure State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) removes the need for a Development Application (DA) on low impact minor works and maintenance activities in cemeteries.

The streamlined pathway will mean cemetery operators and crematoria will not need to submit a Development Application (DA) for minor works like monuments, demolition activities, internal roads and maintenance sheds.

A DA will still be required for development beyond the boundary of an existing cemetery, or development that cannot comply with the proposed controls. It also does not include changes to the number of burial plots or operational hours.

These changes will reduce development assessment timeframes and will also help free up resources in councils, making sure our planners are doing the work they need to do to help speed up the planning system.

The NSW Government has prioritised cutting unnecessary red tape in the state’s planning system after inheriting a system that was as confused as it was confusing.

Many areas of the planning system still have thresholds and triggers that are based on outdated priorities and are not servicing communities in the most effective way. These reforms are just one of the many changes the Government is introducing to make sure the planning system is fit-for-purpose.

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has worked closely with Crown Lands and Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW to ensure the reforms align across all of government.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said:

“Cemeteries play a crucial role in our community and are a place that each of us will interact with throughout our lives to honour our loved ones.

“It is imperative that cemeteries can continue to operate effectively now and into the future. Operators should not be spending their time on simple DAs in existing cemeteries.

“These new tailored pathways recognise the unique role cemeteries play and provide simple operational and functional requirements for them to operate effectively.”

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The Minns Labor Government has been taking action to address the crisis in our cemeteries since day one.

“Once again, we are taking the necessary action to ensure we can meet the future needs in our cemeteries sector through responsible planning, finding more space for burials, and ensuring they are maintained, accessible, and respectful spaces to serve our communities.

“We want all people of all cultures and faiths to have access to sustainable and affordable burial and cremation services, and we will continue to clean up the mess the Coalition left behind.”