The Natural Burial Ground Trust of Australia – Draft Lease Proposal
Following strong community support during the 2024 consultation, Council began negotiating a draft agreement with the Natural Burial Trust of Australia to establish a proposed natural burial ground on the unused and unoccupied land at the Old Goolwa Cemetery. 
Lease area highlighted in red
Council now welcomes feedback on a proposal to enter into a 42-year lease with the Natural Burial Ground (NBG) Trust of Australia, for the purpose of establishing a not-for-profit natural burial ground within the unused portion of the Goolwa Cemetery.
As the land is classified as community land and the term of the lease is greater than 5 years, community engagement is required to ensure the community is provided with the essential terms of the proposal and an opportunity to comment on the proposal should they choose to do so.
Review the Lease Terms which includes:
- Who is responsible for maintenance and management responsibilities
- Concept Plan (staged planting, design intent)
- Steps to realisation plan
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to the burial site after 42 years?
It is anticipated that the Natural Burial Grounds will apply for a new lease on expiry of the current 42-year term. In accordance with the Local Government Act 1999, Council is unable to offer a lease term greater than 42 years. If the NBG or other body did not apply or where not successful with a new lease in 42 years’ time, the Council will revert back to being the cemetery authority and continue to manage the cemetery in accordance with the requirements of the Burial and Cremation Act 2013 (SA) (or Act of that time).
Will ratepayers have priority burial access if demand is high?
The NBG see no reason that Alexandrina residents would not be accommodated in this way. Practically, NBG will assess uptake and burial rates over the first years, and, with that knowledge, will engage in forward planning to manage natural burial space for residents across the duration of tenure.
How to submit feedback
- By Mail - please direct written submission to alex@alexandrina.sa.gov.au or
by post to Att: CEO, Alexandrina Council, PO Box 21, Goolwa SA 5214, or - In Person - where you can complete a hard copy survey at the Strathalbyn or Goolwa offices.
Council will accept submissions until Friday, 20 June 2025, 5 pm.
For further information, please call Council’s Manager Property and Procurement Services on 8555 7000.
