Cemetery trust speaks out about price increases

By Djembe Archibald

Jul 18, 2024

Shepparton Public Cemetery Trust have spoken up. Photo by Megan Fisher

Following an article published by The News, the chairman and vice chairman of the Shepparton Public Cemetery have provided a statement in regard to fee increases.

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A member of the public reached out to The News recently, pointing out what they described as a “ridiculous” price increase.

The article shared the new prices which were gazetted from July 1, 2024 and the difference between the old and new prices.

The two most significant increases were child and Muslim burials.

Burying a child in the Shepparton Public Cemetery general section now costs $2100 for the right of interment, $1106 for grave sinking, and a $185 admin fee, totalling at least $3391.

The same burial last month would have cost $565, which includes a general grave plot and the burial.

That is a 500 per cent increase.

Muslim burials now cost 160 per cent more, going from $1450 to $3779.

In a statement signed by Shepparton Public Cemetery Trust chairman Rick Brun and vice chairman Margaret Stewart, the trust said the Victorian Department of Health sets the prices.

“Shepparton Public Cemetery have a commitment to maintain a high standard of ground care and professional office administration five days per week that the public expect from us, the costs associated in running the vast area has added pressure for a long overdue review,” the statement said.

“The Victorian Department of Health have reviewed all our financials and have set new costs accordingly.

“The Shepparton Public Cemetery does not set these prices, the trust members on the board are all on a voluntary basis and we truly try to serve the Greater Shepparton community as best as we possibly can, we are always open for comments and reviews to be considered.”