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
TL;DR
- 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.