Pets buried in secret for years—now the law finally changes

For decades, Australians have formed unbreakable connections with their pets. 

Dogs, cats, and even the odd cockatoo or guinea pig have become cherished family members, offering comfort, companionship, and unconditional love. 

So it’s no surprise that, when the time comes, many of us want to ensure our pets are close by—even in the afterlife.

If you’ve ever quietly hoped that your beloved furry friend might one day rest near you, you’re part of a growing conversation about how we honour those bonds—even after life. 

Recent changes in one part of Australia have brought this hope closer to reality, challenging old rules and opening new possibilities.

In a move that’s both heartwarming and long overdue, New South Wales (NSW) has become the first Australian state to officially allow pets to be buried with their owners in cemeteries. 

For many, this is a change that simply makes sense, reflecting the deep bonds we share with our animal companions. 

A bond that transcends life

Debra Tranter, founder of Oscar’s Law and operator of a small Victorian cemetery, has seen firsthand how often families have gone to great lengths to keep their pets close. 

‘Funeral directors are breaking the law every day in Australia by sneaking in ashes, or quietly contacting cemeteries about digging a hole to bury a dog. It happens all the time, because it’s what people want,’ she explains.

A law that finally catches up with community values

The new legislation, introduced by Animal Justice Party MP Emma Hurst, passed through NSW Parliament without opposition. 

Hurst summed up the spirit of the change perfectly: ‘Families come in all shapes, sizes and species.’ 

For those who have ever faced the heartbreak of losing a pet, or the anxiety of having to hide their final wishes, this is more than just a legal technicality—it’s a recognition of the role pets play in our lives.

Hurst points out that, while the change may seem minor to some, it’s ‘life-changing’ for those in this situation. 

‘People who run cemeteries were risking breaking the law… and they shouldn’t be in a position where they have to do that when they’re trying to respect a family’s wishes,’ she says.

Stories that touch the heart

Perhaps the most poignant illustration of why this law matters comes from Debra Tranter’s own experience. 

She recalls a senior man, heartbroken after the loss of his dog Molly, who asked if Molly could be buried with his late wife. 

‘They were never able to have children, but they had this old dog called Molly. When Molly died, this dear senior man turned up at the cemetery gates with her wrapped in a shroud, asking me to open the grave of his wife so he could put Molly in,’ Debra remembers. 

‘I’m not going to say no to that. He was incredibly distraught, nearly in tears, and so we decided to meet his wishes. We opened up that grave, buried his dog, and had a little ceremony. But it struck me that it was such a beautiful, poignant moment, but we had to all keep it a secret, because we were actually breaking the law.’

Why the law matters: Practical and emotional reasons

Beyond the emotional significance, there are practical reasons for this change. 

Legally, all burials must be recorded in a register, noting the location, depth, and available space for future interments. 

Previously, because pet burials were illegal, their locations went unrecorded, creating the risk of accidental disturbance during future burials. 

Now, with the law updated, cemeteries can keep accurate records, ensuring that both people and their pets can rest undisturbed.

A step towards national change?

While NSW leads the way, campaigners hope other states will soon follow. 

Victorian MP Georgie Purcell is already working to introduce similar legislation, and there’s growing support across the country. 

As our attitudes towards pets continue to evolve, it seems only a matter of time before more states recognise the importance of allowing families—in all their forms—to stay together.

We want to hear from you!

As attitudes around death and burial continue to evolve, so too do the laws that shape how we honour the lives of both people and their beloved companions. 

This recent change in NSW highlights how policy can reflect shifting values and traditions within our communities.

What are your thoughts on this development? Have you ever considered making arrangements for a pet to be laid to rest with a family member? Do you believe more states should adopt similar laws, or are there concerns that still need to be addressed? Share your views and experiences in the comments below.

Also read: Are you making these 4 dangerous mistakes with your pet? Experts tell all!