Additional Burials in an Official Grave
A grave at a general or lawn cemetery that is an official post-war or conflict commemoration for a veteran may be re-opened later to allow for the burial of a spouse or other family member. The arrangements for this are largely between the family and the cemetery authorities and at the expense of the family.
If you are considering an official commemoration for a veteran at a cemetery and a further burial in the grave at some later time is likely, bear in mind that cemetery regulations and requirements can vary. It is advisable to check with your cemetery in advance that an additional burial and plaque will be possible. Lawn cemeteries especially have a wide range of specifications regarding second plaques.
Essentially, the Office of Australian War Graves (OAWG) has no objection to additional burials provided the official plaque and memorial are not altered in any way.
Where and whether the additional plaque may be placed in a lawn cemetery depends upon the particular cemetery. OAWG has no role to play regarding the second burial or restoration of the grave in a lawn cemetery.
At a general cemetery, OAWG allows a second plaque to be placed in the centre or at the foot of the grave and will take responsibility for restoring the grave after the second burial. Please contact us at OAWG so that these repairs can be made.
All other associated costs and arrangements for the additional plaque and burial are a matter for the family.