Serial killer Ivan Milat's act beyond the grave

The body of Australia's worst serial killer Ivan Milat has been cremated and as promised, the NSW government did not pay for it.

The backpacker murderer died in the hospital of Long Bay Jail two weeks ago after being diagnosed with oesophageal and stomach cancer in May, leaving his family with a letter insisting the NSW government pay for his funeral.

Picture of serial killer, Ivan Milat, smiling while sitting with a police officer in the backseat of a car.
Australian serial killer Ivan Milat murdered seven young backpackers in the early 1990s. He died in prison from oesophagus and stomach cancer. Source: AP Photo / Rick Rycroft.

However, the 74-year-old's final wish has been denied and he was cremated on Friday - with the government reimbursing the cost of the service from Milat's prison account.

NSW Corrections Minister Anthony Roberts confirmed the murderer did not get the taxpayer funeral he had demanded on Sunday.

“Ivan Milat caused immeasurable pain and suffering to his victims and their families," Mr Roberts said in a statement on Sunday.

A supplied undated image shows backpacker murderer Ivan Milat posing with a gun.
Ivan Milat's funeral was paid for using the money from his prison account. Source: AAP Image / Supplied.

“He stole hundreds of years away from young innocent lives.

“His corpse has now been unceremoniously incinerated and he will pay for it. It has already been arranged for the full reimbursement of costs to be paid from his prison account.

“His last wish has been emphatically denied and he can now rot in hell where he belongs,” Mr Roberts said.

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