23/10/2025
Victorians will now be able to be buried alongside their pets after a landmark law change passed state parliament.
The reform, introduced by Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell, lifts the long-standing ban on animals being buried in human cemeteries, including family plots.
Purcell said the change honours the deep bond between people and their companion animals and was backed by the cemetery industry.
However, experts warn the move could worsen Victoria’s looming burial space shortage, with many Melbourne cemeteries already nearing full capacity.
