Summary

 CIRCA was contracted by Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries NSW (SMCNSW) to explore the interment practices, needs and preferences of Aboriginal peoples residing in the communities of the two memorial parks run by SMCNSW, and provide recommendations on how SMCNSW might better serve these communities.

CIRCA’s Research Approach

To meet these objectives, CIRCA designed and implemented data collection and analysis from focus groups with Aboriginal people residing in La Perouse (Bidjigal) and Sutherland Shire (Dharawal) areas, as well as conducting an analysis of the mortality statistics in these areas. Five focus groups were conducted, four of which engaged family groups, and one facilitated with a group of Dharawal Elders. Groups were also separated into male and female participants. Clustering the groups into these categories aimed to:

–          minimise conflict arising between participants by holding groups for people whose Country is where the parks are located

–          create a safe space where people can speak freely by holding gender-based and family-based groups

–          capture a diversity of viewpoints by facilitating groups of four different families

–         respect the positions of Elders in the community by holding a group specifically for Elders

Research Findings and Outcomes

Focus group consultations revealed that at death and during funerals were the times when Aboriginal people especially embrace culture, and most participants prefer to include culturally significant practices during this time. Decision-making around interment was also discussed in the groups, revealing the primary decision-makers, processes, as well as the complexities faced by many Aboriginal communities in organising funerals.

The findings from the data analysis and focus groups revealed a number of implications and recommendations, which will help SMCNSW improve its services for Aboriginal clients, as well as assist with future planning.