Transforming the Future of Cemeteries in Greater Sydney Program Business Case

The Challenge
Sydney’s major public cemeteries are approaching capacity, with some faith groups expected to face burial shortages within five years. Without intervention, the market risks becoming dominated by two non-public operators, threatening affordability and cultural accessibility. MMP required a strategic, system-level approach to secure future land supply and maintain its role as the principal public provider.

The Action

Polis Partners developed a Strategic Business Case assessing short-, medium-, and long-term options to expand burial capacity. The analysis evaluated optimisation of existing sites, opportunities to convert green space for new cemeteries, and future development pathways in growth areas. The business case provided a comprehensive roadmap for staged expansion aligned with demographic and cultural needs.

The Results

The business case was endorsed by the MMP Board and submitted to the NSW Government, outlining clear priorities for land acquisition, planning reform, and legislative action. It is now under government consideration and is expected to guide major decisions to secure burial space for the next decade and beyond.