For the very first time, Canberra families now have access to a modern, purpose-built memorial facility at Gungahlin Cemetery, following the official completion of a new non-denominational memorial hall and condolence lounge.
Gungahlin Cemetery has served the Canberra community since 1979, offering a peaceful natural setting and final resting place with its large lake, native wildlife habitat and landscaped gardens. The new facility builds on that legacy, giving families a dignified and flexible space to farewell their loved ones.
The memorial hall accommodates up to 150 people, with overflow space into a sky-lit internal courtyard featuring a circular roof opening set within a tranquil garden. A covered port cochere provides shelter for arriving guests and ensures hearses and families are protected from the weather.
State-of-the-art audio-visual technology allows families to display photos, play music, share cherished memories, and livestream ceremonies so that loved ones can join from anywhere in the world.
The hall is fully non-denominational, with flexible layouts and orientations to suit all traditions and faiths. A catafalque is available, allowing families to configure the space in the way that best honours their loved one.
Two purpose-built kitchens support hospitality services: a commercial kitchen operated by the in-house catering team, and a second kitchen available for families or groups wishing to prepare their own refreshments. Together, these amenities offer families flexibility, choice and support during their time of remembrance.
A dedicated team, including specialist staff, works closely with families to guide them through every step of the memorial process.
The new memorial hall and condolence lounge will be available for public use from 13 April 2026. To stay up to date, go to www.canberramemorialparks.act.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for City and Government Services, Tara Cheyne
"Every family deserves a space that honours their loved one in the way that's right for them.
"Gungahlin Cemetery's new non-denominational memorial hall delivers exactly that, with flexible layouts, modern technology to share memories and livestream ceremonies, dedicated staff to guide families through every step, and hospitality facilities that bring people together in comfort. It's a facility our whole community can be proud of.
"The completion of this facility realises a vision that Canberra Memorial Parks has held for more than a decade, providing expanded service offerings to meet the needs of families and our culturally diverse community."
Quotes attributable to the CEO of Canberra Memorial Parks, Kerry McMurray
"It is the largest cemetery in Canberra and accommodates various faiths. It also provides the broadest range of burial, interment and memorial options out of all the cemeteries in the ACT."
"I invite Canberrans to come and see the new facility. Our customer service team can show you around our parks or to help you understand our services based on your specific needs, cultural and religious customs and environmental or financial considerations."
