Rookwood Cemetery running out of space, mausoleums the way of the future

ROOKWOOD General Cemeteries Reserve Trust chief executive George Simpson says people should consider being buried in a mausoleum, with the cemetery running out of regular space.

With Sydney's burial space shrinking every year, mausoleums are being encouraged. Pictures: Tim Clapin

• Rookwood Cemetery has new lease of life with cafe, florist
• Rookwood Cemetery’s Elephant House restored to former glory

HAVE you ever considered being buried in a mausoleum? You should, says Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Trust chief executive George Simpson.

With shrinking burial space a matter of grave concern for Australian cemeteries, mausoleums could be the answer to cemetery longevity.

Rookwood Cemetery, the oldest and largest in the southern hemisphere, has just 30 years before it reaches capacity but the site’s mausoleum area is just 50 per cent full.

Mr Simpson said it was vital that cemeteries explored alternatives beyond traditional burials.

“It’s not new news that burial space in Rookwood and Sydney is diminishing and it’s certainly a challenge for us,” Mr Simpson said.

Mausoleums are most popular among the Catholic Italian community.

Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Trust chief executive George Simpson says an indoor crypt in a mausoleum starts at about $18,000-$20,000. Picture: Timothy Clapin

Mr Simpson said while cremation was more space efficient, it was not acceptable in some cultures and religions.

“The mausoleum provides a unique alternative to earth burials and cremation, while maintaining a presence within the cemetery where people can visit and commemorate the dead,” Mr Simpson said.

“It’s also easier for the elderly or disabled to access, and as mausoleums are in a stand-alone building, it’s a safe and secure resting place.”

The mausoleum at Rookwood Cemetery.

Cost wise, an indoor crypt in a mausoleum starts at about $18,000-$20,000.

That compares with a burial plot starting at $8000-$10,000, with an extra $10,000 for a monument.

Rookwood conducts 15 different types of burials, but Mr Simpson says it “all comes down to personal preference”.

In 2017, Rookwood Cemetery marks its 150th year, and already one million people are buried within the grounds.