Harkness Memorial Park: Creating a new community space in Melbourne’s west

THE Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) is developing Victoria’s largest new cemetery – Harkness Memorial Park in the City of Melton – opening in 2027.

This major project is rethinking what a memorial park can be in the 21st century.

Rather than adapting traditional cemetery models, the park is being designed as a welcoming green space that honours the past while embracing the future.

“This isn’t about adapting traditional cemetery design, we are fundamentally rethinking how the space can be used on a day-to-day basis,” said GMCT’s chief built environment officer James Reid.

“Where some older cemeteries might feel separate from daily life, Harkness Memorial Park is designed as a place where the community will naturally gather, reflect, and connect.”

At its heart, the concept is about creating a cemetery within a park, providing vital open space for a rapidly growing community.

Commitment to inclusivity

The park’s design has been shaped through extensive engagement with the community to ensure it reflects the rich diversity of Melbourne’s west.

“We’ve gone about working with different cultural groups to understand their funeral and memorial needs so they can be woven into the way our spaces are designed,” said Reid.

This community-first approach will create places where families can find meaning, belonging, and connection in their own way.

Growing with the community

Harkness Memorial Park is intended to evolve with Melbourne’s west as it grows.

“We’re starting something from scratch that will grow with the suburb and will become, ultimately, a sense of real pride for the local community,” Reid reflected.

Over time, as families gather to remember loved ones, visitors explore the parklands, and the community comes together in moments of remembrance, Harkness Memorial Park will become part of the region’s shared story.

“There can’t be a stronger sense of connection than memorialising a loved one at a place like Harkness Memorial Park,” said Reid.

Expressions of interest are now open With construction underway, the community can now register their interest in a final resting place at Harkness Memorial Park.

Whether planning ahead for yourself or making arrangements for a loved one, you’ll be able to choose from peaceful, inclusive settings designed to connect with nature and community.

By registering, you’ll be among the first to receive updates, explore options, and access early opportunities to secure a place.

Find out more at harkness.gmct.com.au or contact [email protected].

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