How to order a headstone or monument

A step-by-step guide to ordering a headstone or monument for your loved one. Learn how to choose a registered stonemason, understand the process, and know your ongoing responsibilities as a Right of Interment holder.

Headstones, monuments and plaques create a lasting memorial to your loved one and provides a meaningful way for family and friends to remember and visit them.

Planning your headstone or monument

Choosing the right memorial is a personal decision. There’s no rush to make this choice - you can take as long as you need to decide on the design, materials, and inscription that best honours your loved one.

Consider your options:

  • Materials – common choices include granite, marble or another decorative stone

  • Design – from simple headstones to elaborate monuments with decorative elements

  • Inscription – names, dates, and personal messages that reflect your loved one’s life

Quick tip: Remember to double check what’s included with your purchase. In some cemetery areas, a standard headstone or plaque may be included with your purchase. In most areas, you’ll need to engage a stonemason separately

How to order a headstone or monument

Step 1: Choose a registered stonemason

All stonemasons working at our cemeteries must be registered with us to ensure they meet safety requirements and comply with Australian standards.

View our list of registered stonemasons.

We encourage you to research different stonemasons and compare quotes from multiple providers. Don’t forget to check what warranties and guarantees the stonemason provides.

If your preferred stonemason isn’t on our list, they can register with us before starting work on your memorial.

Step 2: Design

Your chosen stonemason will work with you to design your headstone and ensure it meets the size requirements and any other regulations for your burial area.

Step 3: Installation

Your stonemason will handle the permit application to install your headstone with GMCT directly. From there, our team will coordinate the installation with your stonemason, keeping the Right of Interment holder of the grave and/or chosen family members informed, as required.

Step 4: Ongoing maintenance

As the Right of Interment holder, you are responsible for the ongoing maintenance of your headstone or monument and ensuring it remains safe. Learn more about headstone and monument safety.

Need help?

Our team is here to help and can provide guidance on the process for ordering and installing a headstone, monument or plaque.

Get in touch with us at 1300 022 298 or complete our online enquiry form.

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