Minister for Health Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu introduced the Burial and Cremation Amendment Bill in Parliament, aiming to reform Fiji’s Burial and Cremation Act of 1911—one of the nation’s oldest legislative frameworks. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing laws that have not adapted to the significant demographic growth and urbanization the country has experienced.
Dr. Lalabalavu highlighted that the original act was drafted for a much smaller population when urban demands were limited. Many provisions of the Act have remained unchanged for over 100 years, which has led to concerns regarding outdated imperial measurements, obsolete fines, and the unclear roles of various authorities such as municipalities and the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS).
The proposed amendments seek to establish updated guidelines for managing cemeteries and crematoria, clarify authority designations, and revise penalties to be more in line with today’s economic realities. Public consultations have revealed substantial concerns about inconsistent procedures for reopening graves and a lack of clarity between state-run and community-managed burial sites. Dr. Lalabalavu noted that the current burial fees of $6 for adults and $4 for children, which have not changed since 1911, are increasingly unsustainable for operators and community groups.
Additionally, the Fiji Corrections Service has raised issues concerning rising maintenance costs, especially for cemented graves that require specialized labor and equipment for access. Urban areas such as Suva and Labasa are facing growing cemetery space shortages, intensifying the pressure on families seeking burial options for their loved ones.
Dr. Lalabalavu asserted that the proposed legislative changes are long overdue, aiming to create a clearer, fairer, and more sustainable system for burial and cremation practices throughout Fiji. The government’s responsiveness to public health needs and cultural diversity underscores a positive shift towards an improved legislative environment for managing end-of-life care in the country.
As Fiji moves forward with modernizing its health and burial legislation, there is hope that these reforms will better align with contemporary needs and enhance the lives of its citizens during their times of grief. This legislative update marks a proactive step towards refining the management of burial and cremation, ensuring that the laws remain equitable and reflective of the evolving dynamics of Fijian society.