Monday, April 7, 2025 marked a historic milestone with the official opening of Macarthur Memorial Park—NSW’s first new crown cemetery in 80 years—in Varroville, Campbelltown, in Sydney’s growing south-west region.
The ceremony, held onsite at 9am, welcomed esteemed guests including NSW Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper, Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Anthony Fisher, and leaders from 25 different faith groups, highlighting the site’s inclusive, multicultural vision.
A Legacy for Future Generations
Developed and operated by the not-for-profit Catholic Cemeteries + Crematoria Trust (CCC), the $125 million project has now been returned to the NSW Government as publicly-owned Crown land, ensuring it will serve the people of NSW for the next century.
With 136,000 burial plots and thousands of cremation niches, Macarthur Memorial Park addresses Sydney’s urgent need for new burial space—especially for its diverse, multi-faith population.
“We are delighted to provide this park for the people of NSW and look forward to the community embracing this unique facility, which spans 113 hectares in the Scenic Hills and will serve generations to come,” said Lauren Hardgrove, CEO of CCC.
More Than a Cemetery—A Community Destination
Inspired by world-class memorial parks, Macarthur Memorial Park offers far more than burial space. Set across 113 hectares, the site includes:
-
Three chapels (The Sanctuary) seating up to 500 people
-
A dedicated function centre for community and family events
-
20 dedicated burial rooms for specific religious and cultural groups
-
Six lakes and eight kilometres of walking and cycling tracks
-
A public café, picnic areas, and tranquil gardens with thousands of native plants
“These parks are not just cemeteries—they are beautiful, open spaces designed for all people to enjoy,” said Premier Chris Minns. “They provide quiet spaces for reflection and community, and this is a great day for the people of NSW.”
A Place for All Cultures and Faiths
The park’s inclusive design was celebrated by community leaders:
Mr Kazi Ali OAM, President of the Muslim Cemeteries Board, acknowledged the park as a vital solution to the burial space shortage affecting the Muslim community:
“This is a significant milestone. Macarthur Memorial Park will provide our families with a dignified and appropriate place for burial for generations to come.”
Michele Goldman, CEO of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, welcomed the long-awaited development:
“Thanks to Macarthur Memorial Park, the Jewish community now has access to burial space for the next century.”
Maronite Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay added:
“This is a momentous occasion for all faith communities. It provides a sacred and peaceful place where families can gather, pray, and continue their traditions.”
More Burial Space at Kemps Creek
CCC has also announced a further expansion at its Kemps Creek grounds, with the purchase of an additional 4.73 hectares. This will provide 10,000 new burial spaces, further supporting Sydney’s growing needs.
Burial Pricing and Information
Burial sites at Macarthur Memorial Park start from $6,950, with an additional interment fee of $3,529.60, covering the cost of the burial or placement.
Archbishop Anthony Fisher praised the Minns Government for addressing Sydney’s burial needs:
“Macarthur Memorial Park is truly a place for all faiths and cultures. We are proud to be handing over this valuable asset that has taken 13 years to come to fruition.”
Recent Comments