On 3 June 2025, the Hindu Council of Australia, along with Hindu chaplains, spiritual carers, priests, and community leaders, hosted Ms Denise Ora, CEO of Metropolitan Memorial Parks (MMP), for a special presentation held at Western Sydney University.
Ms Ora shared the strategic vision of MMP following the recent amalgamation of three
Crown cemetery operators. With a clear mandate from the NSW Government, MMP is tasked with addressing the urgent shortage of burial and cremation spaces in Sydney, particularly in light of projections that some sites will begin reaching capacity by 2031.
Her presentation highlighted MMP’s values, excellence, diversity, care, and unity, and its commitment to supporting all faith communities. Importantly for the Hindu community, she acknowledged essential religious customs such as cremation rites, sacred fire rituals, shraddha ceremonies, and the spiritual significance of water.
This engagement reflects a growing recognition of Hindu traditions in public service planning.
We thank Western Sydney University for graciously providing the venue and facilities to host this important discussion. Their support
helped create a space for productive dialogue between MMP and the Hindu community.
HCA thanks Ms Ora for her leadership and looks forward to working collaboratively with MMP to ensure spiritual dignity and infrastructure for culturally sensitive services for future 
generations.
