NSW Becomes 1st Australian State to Legalise Human Composting After Death
The process converts human remains into nutrient-rich soil, giving families the opportunity to plant a tree in honour of their deceased relative
New South Wales has become the first Australian state to legalize human composting, officially termed “terramation” or natural organic reduction. This new law offers a third legal option for the disposition of human remains, alongside burial and cremation. The process involves placing a body in a sealed vessel with organic materials, which then breaks down into nutrient-rich soil within 30 to 40 days.
- New South Wales is the first Australian state to legalize human composting.
- The process is also known as terramation or natural organic reduction.
- It provides a third legal option for the disposition of human remains, alongside burial and cremation.
- Bodies are placed in a sealed vessel with organic materials like straw and mulch.
- Within 30 to 40 days, remains decompose into nutrient-rich soil.
- Families can use the soil for planting trees, creating memorial gardens, or bush regeneration.
- The Public Health Amendment (Terramation) Bill 2026 passed with overwhelming support.
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