Where is terramation legal?
Terramation is legal in 14 states of the United States and in one German state, Schleswig-Holstein. It is not legal in Australia yet, though on 15 October 2026 a bill to allow it passed the New South Wales Legislative Assembly unanimously and now goes to the Legislative Council.
United States
14 states- The first jurisdiction in the world to allow it.
- Passed in 2022, takes effect in 2027.
- In effect since July 2025.
Germany
1 state- The first German state to allow it, as a third form of burial alongside burial and cremation.
Australia
Pending- Not law. Terramation cannot be chosen anywhere in Australia.
Is terramation legal in Australia?
No. Terramation cannot be chosen in any Australian state or territory. The Public Health Amendment (Natural Organic Reduction) Bill 2026 was introduced in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly on 25 June 2026 by the independent member Alex Greenwich, and passed that House unanimously on 15 October 2026. It has not yet been considered by the Legislative Council, where debate is expected in November 2026.
If it passes the Council and receives assent, New South Wales would be the first Australian jurisdiction to allow terramation. The terramation provisions would then commence two years after assent, so no date can be given yet.
Which was the first place to allow it?
Washington State, in 2019. Thirteen more United States states have followed, most of them since 2024. Schleswig-Holstein approved it in June 2026 after testing the process from 2022, making it the first German state to do so.
What would you become?
Terramation is not available in Australia. Adding your name is what moves it closer.