An investigation by Guardian Australia has found that Australians, including war veterans, are being buried in unmarked communal graves, prompting an immediate apology from NSW Health and a signal from the state health minister to end the practice.
The special investigation used evidence from family and friends, analysis of cemetery registries, and aerial and satellite imagery to reveal that 'persons without means' are being laid to rest in bare patches of earth between walkways and old headstones. The vast majority of these graves do not have a plaque or tombstone.
Investigation findings
The discovery has left families devastated after learning where their loved ones have been buried. In an overgrown 'swamp' at Rookwood cemetery, one woman, Jayne, asked: 'Where are the graves?' and was told: 'You're standing on them.'
The investigation was led by chief investigations correspondent Christopher Knaus and investigations reporter Ariel Bogle, who spoke with Reged Ahmad about their findings.
Government response
NSW Health, which oversees the burial process, has issued an immediate apology. The state health minister, Ryan Park, has signalled his intention to end the use of unmarked communal graves.
