Cemeteries & Crematoria NSW

Governance

Orange coloured headstones in cemetery with natural bush setting.

Chief Executive Officer

From 1 July 2025, Cemeteries & Crematoria NSW (CCNSW) will be governed by a statutorily appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO will be appointed by the Governor on recommendation of the Minister for Lands and Property for a period of up to 5 years. Until a formal appointment is made, the Minister will appoint an interim CEO for a period of no longer than 6 months. 

On 4 June 2025, changes to the Cemeteries and Crematoria Act 2013 (the Act) were passed by both Houses of NSW Parliament. As part of these changes, the CCNSW Board will be dissolved from 1 July 2025, and its functions transferred to the CEO of CCNSW.

With the Board's leadership, CCNSW has made great strides in recent years and improved its regulatory presence. Given CCNSW's increased maturity, this level of oversight is no longer required. CCNSW will remain subject to extensive oversight from the Minister for Lands and Property and the NSW Audit Office.

That oversight is further strengthened through the establishment of advisory groups representing the interment industry and community and consumers which will provide sector feedback, engagement and accountability. The Act now provides flexibility for how these groups function and allows for additional groups to be created or dissolved by CCNSW as required.

Industry Consultative Group

The Industry Consultative Group (ICG) has representatives from Crown, local government, private and church cemetery or crematorium operators as well as associations representing funeral directors.

Gravestones among yellow flowers in cemetery

Members share information and provide feedback which helps us understand industry views. Industry participation improves the transparency and effectiveness of our decision-making and regulatory development.

Community and Consumer Consultative Group

The Community and Consumer Consultative Group (CCCG) has representatives from community, cultural, faith-based, environmental, non-religious or consumer groups.

Gravestone in cemetery amongst yellow wildflowers

Members share information and provide feedback to ensure a wide range of perspectives and concerns are considered.  This helps us make informed decisions that reflect the needs and preferences of the community. The group also encourages innovation in the interment sector by providing a platform for community members to share their ideas and suggestions.