How much does a burial plot cost?

While cremation has become the fastest-growing funeral trend, burial remains a meaningful choice for many families because of personal, cultural, or family traditions. When arranging a burial, one of the main considerations is the burial plot. It’s the piece of land where someone is laid to rest or buried, and is often the single biggest cost in a traditional burial.

Burial plots typically start at a few thousand dollars and can reach over $13,000, according to the 2023 Australian Seniors Cost of Death Report. The exact price depends on the cemetery, its location, the type of plot, and the local requirements in place. Metropolitan cemeteries generally have higher fees than regional ones.

This guide explains the main factors that influence burial plot costs. It outlines what is usually included, what additional charges might apply, and how these fees sit within the overall cost of arranging a burial.

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Burial plot prices

Burial plot costs can differ from one cemetery to another and even between sections within the same grounds. The final price depends on things like the cemetery’s location, the type and style of the plot, where it sits within the grounds, the term of interment, and any extra inclusions the cemetery provides. Because these details can change the cost, it helps to compare options before making a decision.

Government and council-managed cemeteries set their own fees, and these can vary significantly between regions, individual sites and the actual inclusions. The examples below show basic adult burial plots or comparable options in standard locations, based on publicly available cemetery pricing as of December 2025.

New South Wales

Victoria

Queensland

These figures are provided for general guidance only and reflect pricing published in the linked sources at the time of writing. We do not set or control cemetery fees, and prices, terms, and inclusions may change without notice. Families should confirm current costs directly with the cemetery or check the cemetery’s official website for the most up to date pricing before making any arrangements.

Other costs to expect

Beyond the price of a burial plot, families should also prepare for several additional fees that form part of a traditional burial. These costs vary by cemetery and location, but the figures from Gathered Here give a useful guide to what is typical in Australian metropolitan areas.

Opening and closing fees are usually the largest extra charge. These cover preparing the grave, interring the coffin, and restoring the site. According to Gathered Here, the interment fee is about $2,300. If the plot is intended for a double or triple-depth burial, families in some states can expect an extra charge for deeper digging, approximately $590.

Headstone or marker costs also sit outside the plot price. This includes the memorial itself and any charges a cemetery sets for installing it. Gathered Here notes that some cemeteries apply a monumental work fee or permit, averaging around $700.

Some cemeteries also require a grave liner or burial vault to keep the surrounding soil stable. The approximate cost for this is about $1,000.

Maintenance or perpetual care fees may apply too. Some cemeteries include these in the plot price, while others list them separately for ongoing grounds upkeep.

What are the types of burial plots

Burial plot prices can vary widely, and this is often because plots are not all the same. Cemeteries usually offer a few main plot types to suit different traditions and family preferences.

A single plot is the standard option in most cemeteries and is designed for one person. It typically accommodates a standard coffin and usually has space for a plaque or headstone.

A double plot, also called a companion plot, is intended for two people. It may be arranged side by side or set up so one coffin is placed above the other within the same grave space. Many families choose this when they want a shared resting place, and it can sometimes be more economical than purchasing two separate single plots.

Some burial plots are prepared to a triple depth. This allows up to three family members to be buried in a single plot.

Family plots are also available in some cemeteries which reserve a larger area that can hold several plots grouped together. This option suits families who want to be buried in one dedicated space.

Plots also differ in style. The most common is a lawn grave, where the grave sits in a grassed area and the marker is usually a flat plaque. This layout keeps the space neat and simple for the cemetery to maintain.

The other option is a monumental grave. This style allows a full upright headstone, giving families the choice of different shapes, stones, and designs. It offers more room for inscriptions and creates a more traditional, prominent memorial.

What burial plot ownership means

When you buy a cemetery plot in Australia, you are not buying the land itself. You are buying the Right of Interment, which gives you or a nominated person the legal right to be buried in that specific space. Cemeteries set their own rules around how long that right lasts and what conditions apply.

Most cemeteries offer two main options.

Perpetual interment means the plot is held ongoing. There is no end date and no need for renewal, which means families will not pay another large payment later.

Fixed-term interment covers a set period, often 25, 50, or 99 years. When the term expires, the cemetery will usually contact a family member to renew the right. If it is not renewed, the cemetery may have the authority to reuse the space, depending on local regulations.

Cemetery rules can differ. Some require plot holders to follow maintenance guidelines or set limits on memorials, while others offer more flexibility. It is worth checking the specific policies of the cemetery you are dealing with so you understand what is allowed and what is not.

Planning ahead with a pre-purchased burial plot

As cemetery space becomes more limited, pre-purchasing burial plots is becoming more common. In metropolitan areas such as Sydney, current burial and cremation trends suggest cemetery capacity may be reached within the coming decades, making some plots unavailable for at-need purchase. This can place added pressure on families at the time of death, particularly those with cultural or religious requirements for burial.

For individuals, pre-purchasing a plot can offer greater certainty. It allows people to secure a preferred location, manage costs at today’s prices, and record their wishes in advance. Planning ahead can also ease the burden on family members by reducing last-minute decisions during an already difficult time.

Pre-purchasing a plot is becoming more common, especially as many cemeteries are full or close to reaching capacity. If you have a strong preference for a particular location, securing a plot in advance can make sure you get the space you want. It also locks in today’s pricing and can be paid upfront or in instalments at many cemeteries.

Planning ahead can also make things easier for your family later. Pre-purchasing clearly records your wishes, removes pressure during a difficult time, and avoids last minute decisions. To pre-purchase, you simply contact the cemetery, ask about available plots and pricing, and complete the cemetery’s paperwork. Keeping copies of your paperwork and making sure your family knows where they are helps ensure your plans are carried out as intended.

If you are already thinking about pre-purchasing a plot, you may also want to consider a prepaid funeral. It is another way to ease financial and emotional stress for loved ones while making sure your farewell reflects what you want.

Frequently asked questions about burial plot costs.

When should I start looking into a burial plot?

Some families begin looking well in advance, often to understand costs or secure a preferred location. Others only consider a burial plot when a death occurs. Looking earlier can give you more choice and time to consider your options, but it is not required.

What should I check before buying a burial plot?

Before purchasing a burial plot, it’s important to check what is included in the price, whether there are any ongoing maintenance fees, the size and location of the plot, cemetery rules and restrictions, and the conditions around transferring or reselling the plot in the future.

Can burial plots be transferred?

Yes, in many cases burial plots can be transferred, but this depends on the cemetery and the type of interment right. Perpetual rights are usually simpler to transfer than fixed-term or renewable rights. Most transfers require approval from the cemetery and specific paperwork, so it’s important to check the cemetery’s rules before buying or transferring a plot.

How do I know which cemetery is right for my family?

The right cemetery often comes down to location, family connections, and personal preference. Practical factors such as availability, fees, maintenance arrangements, and rules around monuments can also play a role. Many families find it helpful to visit the cemetery or speak directly with staff before making a decision.

Is there a difference between public and private cemeteries?

Public cemeteries in Australia are usually owned by local councils and tend to have set pricing structures, which can make costs more predictable. Private cemeteries are owned by private organisations and may offer more flexibility in memorial options or services, with prices varying depending on what is included.

Are green burial plots less expensive than traditional burial plots?

In some cases, green or eco-friendly burial plots may cost less because they involve fewer requirements, such as no embalming or simpler grave preparation. However, availability is limited and pricing varies between cemeteries. It’s best to check what options exist locally and what is included in the fee.

Is a burial plot more expensive than cremation?

According to the 2023 Australian Seniors Cost of Death Report, burial plot costs can exceed $13,000 depending on the cemetery and location. By comparison, a direct cremation which does not include a service or attendance is typically the lowest-cost cremation option. As of December 2025, the average cost of a direct cremation is $3,534 as reported by Gathered Here.

How can I save money when buying a burial plot?

Costs can vary widely depending on the cemetery and the type of plot chosen. Some families consider lawn or general plots, regional cemeteries, or pre-purchasing to better manage costs and understand pricing in advance. Comparing options between cemeteries, including whether payment plans are available, can also help you decide what suits your circumstances.

Final thoughts on burial plot costs

Burial plot costs can vary widely, and they are often one of the more significant decisions families face when arranging a burial. Understanding what influences the price and what is included can make it easier to see how these costs fit into the overall burial arrangements.

If you’re arranging a burial and need support, our helpful and compassionate team can help you understand your options. Although burial plots are arranged separately, we can guide you through the steps involved.

If you need support with burial arrangements, Bare is here to help and guide you through the process. Head to the link below or give our friendly team a call on 1800 071 176.‍

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Disclaimer: This article and all information and pricing within it was accurate at the time of writing. Please see bare.com.au or linked sources for current pricing. This article provides general information only and does not constitute professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for guidance specific to your situation.