Notice regarding Animal Memorialisation
As of October 2025, Parliament has passed an amendment to the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act to permit the placement of animal remains in Victorian cemeteries. Although the amendment has not yet received royal assent, assent is expected and would enable the new provisions to come into effect.
Ballarat Cemeteries has long supported the inclusion of animals in cemeteries and welcomes the forthcoming legislative change.
As of October 2025, Parliament has passed an amendment to the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act to permit the placement of animal remains in Victorian cemeteries. Although the amendment has not yet received royal assent, assent is expected and would enable the new provisions to come into effect.
Once enacted, the change removes the legal barrier but does not create an obligation for any cemetery to offer the service.
Each Cemetery Trust will retain autonomy to determine whether, when, and how to implement arrangements for accepting animal remains. We expect that Cemetery Trusts will have the option not to include animal remains in their cemeteries.
The Ballarat Cemetery Trust will work closely with its community to make the right decision, ensuring that any future direction reflects local expectations, respects cultural and spiritual considerations, and aligns with the Trust’s broader purpose and long-term planning. If you wish to register interest in future consultation, please email enquiries@ballaratcemeteries.com.au
We do not expect any further progress or updates until mid 2026