Digging up the dead proposed in rent-a-plot scheme for NSW cemeteries
With Sydney running out of room to bury its dead there's one idea to make your final resting place not so final.
New NSW government plans could see graves dug up after 25 years.
It's all because NSW cemeteries are running out of space and for remains to remain in the ground for longer could cost thousands of dollars more.
Instead of being buried in one spot forever, the Berejiklian government is looking at plans to allow just a lease of the space.
"It gives you the choice of saying I'm happy to be buried there for 25 years," Christopher Zinn from Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW Board said.
Families can choose to extend the lease up to 99 years.
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"Then you will be moved those remains that still exist will be put in a sanctified place," Mr Zinn said. "And then that space can be used again."
What's left will be taken to a crypt, not quite like the famous ancient tombs under Paris or Rome. Modern versions are already being considered for an eastern suburbs cemetery at Matraville.
Feedback in a government study wasn't promising, some called it "disrespectful", others "shocked", "horrified" and "appalled" at the idea of digging up a loved one.
"It would be nothing compulsory and I don't want anyone to feel stressed about," Premier Gladys Berejiklian said.
"It's simply a proposal at this stage."
Authorities say it would be the affordable option, critics say it would create a divide not seen for centuries.
"One system for the rich and another system altogether a temporary for the rest of the community," Opposition Leader Luke Foley said.
"I mean this is going back to the Middle Ages."
Temporary tenure is already available at Waverley cemetery. The change would make it available at all crown cemeteries.
Like Sydney real estate for the living, it's all about location. Burial forever at Rookwood can cost from around $11,000 while 25 years at Waverley costs around $25,000.
According to latest estimates some parts of Sydney could run out of burial space within ten years and there will be no room for any graves in the city by 2051.
