Cumberland Council Stands Firm Against Changing Carnarvon Golf Course into a cemetery
Cumberland City Council has strongly rejected the NSW Government’s proposal to convert 45 hectares of open green space at Carnarvon Golf Course into a cemetery.
Mayor Ola Hamed said the plan would place an unnecessary burden on the community, which already neighbours Rookwood Cemetery, the largest in the southern hemisphere.
“Our community deserves to keep its green spaces,” Mayor Hamed said.
“Once they are gone, they are gone forever. Western Sydney is already carrying the load in many areas, including housing. It is time for other regions, such as Sydney’s east and inner west, to be considered for projects like this.”
The Council has twice voted unanimously this year to oppose the proposal and defend the land—equivalent in size to more than 63 football fields.
Mayor Hamed also called for transparency from the NSW Government.
“We were told several sites were being considered. The Government needs to be open about its process. Our councillors and community are united in opposing this unfair outcome and protecting the liveability of our area.”
Council’s Position
Cumberland City Council is calling on the NSW Government to:
- Remove Carnarvon Golf Course from the list of possible cemetery expansion sites.
- Honour commitments to protect urban open space, particularly in high-density and transit-oriented communities.
- Instruct Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP) to investigate alternative sites outside the inner-metro area where green space is not at risk.
Community Action
Council has launched a petition through its website and social media channels and is urging residents to participate.
A community rally, organised by Member for Auburn Lynda Voltz MP, will be held at Coleman Park on Sunday 31 August at 12:30pm. The event will allow residents to show their opposition and send a clear message to the government.
The NSW Government has opened public consultation on the proposal. More information and submission details are available at:
https://haveyoursay.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/save-carnarvon-golf-course
