The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has published a draft report into the cost of funerals in NSW and has called on cemetery operators to offer more affordable standard burial plots.
Releasing the Tribunal’s report Review of the costs and pricing of interment in NSW, Tribunal Member, Deborah Cope said the draft report also recommended operators make provision for caring for burial plots and cemeteries in perpetuity.
“Some consumers are facing high prices, confusing information and minimal options at a time when they are particularly vulnerable,” Ms Cope said.
“Everyone has a right to a dignified burial,” she said.
“While many people choose cremation these days, it is important that those who want a burial are able to access an affordable plot that meets their needs.”
Ms Cope said IPART was recommending cemeteries be required to offer a standard lawn grave burial plot.
“Cemeteries that serve particular cultural or faith groups should also be required to offer a standard burial plot that respects the requirements of that culture or faith,” she said.
She said a problem that people planning for a burial often encountered was a lack of information about prices, as well as different and sometimes confusing terminology about the products and services on offer.
“To provide greater transparency in cemetery pricing, we are recommending that all cemetery operators be required to publish itemised prices using consistent terminology,” Ms Cope said.
“We are also recommending that the NSW Government set up a website to allow people to easily compare prices across all cemeteries in NSW.”
She said IPART was holding a virtual public hearing on the issues on 17 September.
IPART’s 122-page Draft Report, as well as information on how to have a say and register to attend the public hearing can be accessed at this PS News link.
