The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) sought feedback from the Hindu and Sikh community to enhance our understanding of their needs and help improve the facilities available for funeral practices across our sites.


Phase 1: Online Survey

We started with a survey, featuring over 15 multi-choice and open text questions, which received 34 responses from across Melbourne.

Phase 2: Consultation Program

Following the survey, we commissioned CultureVerse to conduct research to deepen understanding of the diverse spiritual needs of Victoria’s Hindu and Sikh communities. They developed a consultation program that involved four groups:

  • families who participated via in-home interviews
  • religious leaders who participated via in-person 1:1 interviews
  • community leaders who participated via an online focus group
  • previous survey participants who joined an in-person focus group

Overall, we engaged with almost 30 individuals with representation across generations, networks, Temples and Gurdwaras.

What we heard

  • ​​​The urgency of time

    We heard clearly that the current wait times for cremation can be distressing. In both Hindu and Sikh beliefs, the body should ideally be cremated as soon as possible, preferably within 24 to 48 hours. Delays are seen as preventing the soul from leaving the body and delaying the family’s ability to begin their mourning period.

  • The role of the family

    Of major significance to participants is ensuring that key family members, usually the eldest son or closest male relative, can fulfil their duties. Participants expressed a strong desire for family members to have active roles in the process within the cemetery environment, such as initiating the cremation (pressing the button) and participating in washing rituals.

  • Connection to the Elements

    Returning the body to the five elements (Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Ether) is central to Hindu and Sikh beliefs.

    • Water: The most common preference for scattering ashes is a flowing body of water. Many indicated they would be comfortable using a flowing water body in Australia if it were available and approved.
    • Fire: Participants expressed a desire to incorporate the element of fire symbolically, such as through oil burners, incense, or candles, to honour traditional purification rituals.

  • Facilities for Gathering

    We heard that current facilities within community and cemeteries often do not fully support the size and nature of community gatherings. Participants highlighted the need for:

    • Spaces suitable for large groups to sit on the floor for prayers
    • Access to washing facilities, such as hand basins, for purification
    • Large viewing areas to allow community to witness the cremation
    • Facilities that are strictly alcohol and tobacco-free

What's next

Thank you to everyone who participated in our recent consultations. This research was conducted with deep respect for culture, recognising that while faith practices evolve, the core spiritual needs of the community remain vital.

Insights will guide GMCT in designing future spaces and services that respectfully support Hindu and Sikh cultural and spiritual needs.