New South Wales Legalizes Human Composting as Third End-of-Life Option

New South Wales passed legislation on October 21, 2026, making it the first Australian jurisdiction to legalize human composting, also known as terramation, as a third option for body disposition alongside burial and cremation[1][2]. This new law introduces an environmentally friendly alternative for end-of-life care[2][7].

This development provides residents with an eco-conscious choice, potentially reducing land use for cemeteries and carbon emissions associated with traditional methods[2][5][6]. It offers a sustainable option as urban centers face scarcity and high costs for burial plots[6][9].

What the records show

The Public Health Amendment (Terramation) Bill 2026 passed both houses of the New South Wales Parliament, clearing the Legislative Assembly on October 15, 2026, and the Legislative Council on October 21, 2026[1]. The bill amends the Public Health Act 2010 to allow for natural organic reduction of human remains[2][4]. The process involves placing an unembalmed body in a temperature-controlled vessel with organic materials such as straw, alfalfa, or mulch[2][5][9]. Microbial activity breaks down the body into nutrient-rich soil over approximately 6 to 12 weeks[2][5][8][9]. Families can then collect the resulting humus for memorial gardens or trees[3][8][9]. The law specifically states that terramation cannot be carried out if it is contrary to a written direction made by the deceased person before their death[1][4][8][9]. Proponents say terramation can be carbon neutral, uses less land, and avoids the energy consumption and emissions associated with cremation[5][6][7][12].

The timeline

The Public Health Amendment (Terramation) Bill 2026 passed the Legislative Assembly on October 15, 2026, and the Legislative Council on October 21, 2026[1]. The bill is now awaiting assent[1][2]. The terramation provisions will not take effect immediately; they commence two years after the date of assent[1][4][10]. The New South Wales government has 18 months to two years from assent to develop regulations governing the practice[2]. Human composting facilities are expected to become available around 2028 or 2029[1][2][9].

What changed and for whom

New South Wales has become the first Australian jurisdiction to legalize human composting, providing a third legal option for body disposition alongside burial and cremation[2][3][7]. Independent Sydney MP Alex Greenwich introduced the bill in the Legislative Assembly, and Animal Justice Party MLC Emma Hurst took carriage of the bill in the Legislative Council[1][2][3]. The legislation offers an alternative intended to alleviate pressure on cemetery spaces and provide an eco-conscious choice for residents[6].

What the subject has said publicly

Several New South Wales Members of Parliament have publicly expressed their intent to use terramation for themselves. Greens MP Dr. Amanda Cohn, Labor MP Cameron Murphy, and Libertarian MP John Ruddick have all indicated they would consider this option[5][6]. During parliamentary debate, Liberal MP Susan Carter urged the government to consider how to ensure the dead are respected, stating that