Applications open for new Crown cemetery board

In the latest step to fix the cemeteries crisis left by the former Government, the NSW Labor Government will open applications for qualified candidates to join a new professional board to help meet the needs of Sydney’s Crown cemetery sector.

The new skills-based board will oversee the Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP) Land Manager, which commenced on 1 July 2023 following the merger of three Crown cemetery operators: Rookwood General Cemeteries Reserve Land Manager, Northern Metropolitan Cemeteries Land Manager, and Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Land Manager.

Metropolitan Memorial Parks performs an important public purpose, meeting the burial and cremation needs of the community.

Essential skills and experience being sought from prospective Board members include financial management, governance and risk management, organisational performance, stakeholder management, commercial strategy, and legal skills.

Other desirable attributes include skills and experience in place management, construction, change management and information technology.

The government is also keen to have a diverse and multicultural board that is reflective of the wider community, ensuring different beliefs and cultural practices are considered in relevant matters.

Up to seven Board members including a Chair will be appointed for an initial three years.

For further information visit the Metropolitan Memorial Parks Board application portal or visit https://iworkfor.nsw.gov.au/

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“The former Government left the Crown cemeteries sector in crisis, with many faith groups set to run out of burial space within three years.”

“The NSW Government, alongside administrator Ken Morrison, has hit the ground running with the creation of Metropolitan Memorial Parks. Now, we are looking for talented individuals to join its new Board and work with us to help steer the future of the Crown cemetery sector on behalf of the community.”

“This exciting opportunity will see Board members supported by the government to oversee Metropolitan Memorial Parks’ operations and work on interesting opportunities and challenges, including creating more cemetery space for Sydney, helping rethink the role cemeteries play as shared public open spaces, and engaging with key faith communities and stakeholders to meet consumer needs.”