Current information on the East Rockingham Pioneer Cemetery (ERPC)
The Governor of WA published a revised Closure Order for the ERPC in the Government Gazette of 29 November 2024.
We are sympathetic of those with a personal connection to this cemetery and the below clarifies what the changes to the Closure Order mean for grant holders or those with loved ones buried at this cemetery.
Essentially, these changes will allow more interments (burials and ashes) over a longer period of time.
Under the changes, there are now three ways for interment (burial or ashes) at the ERPC:
1) If you have a valid Grant issued in the last 25 years.
If your grant is less than 25 years old you can use it to be interred at the ERPC.
2) If you have a personal connection to the ERPC and do not have a Grant, you can write to the Minister for Local Government for special consideration.
The City of Rockingham, Department of Local Government, Sports and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) and the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board (MCB) acknowledge that there will be some people with a personal connection to the ERPC who don’t have a valid Grant. If you or someone you know is in this situation, you can apply to the representatives of the Minister for special consideration for burial at the ERPC.
Please note, however, that:
- ministerial permission is not guaranteed
- a strong case will be required to be considered for such permission
To apply for ministerial permission, visit www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/cemeteries-burialsopens in a new window and complete the relevant application form.
Alternatively you can contact the Department of Local Government, Sports and Cultural Industries on +61 8 6552 1530, or email legislation@dlgsc.wa.gov.au.
3) If you were specifically named in the Closure Order.
The November 29 2024 Closure Order included the names of 35 individuals. These names refer to specific people whom are permitted burial within the ERPC. For further information, or to use this permission, please contact either the City of Rockingham on 9528 0333, or the Metropolitan Cemeteries Board on 1300 793 109.