The Jewish section at Rookwood Cemetery
Among the oldest continuously used Jewish burial grounds in Sydney.
Community content under review for accuracy
Location
Jewish sections within the Rookwood Necropolis, Lidcombe
Established
1800s
Monument types
Multiple designated Jewish lawn and monumental areas
What to know
Burial customs
Burial takes place as soon as practical and simply, following ritual preparation (tahara). Cremation is traditionally not practised.
The headstone
The headstone (matzevah) is set and formally unveiled, customarily within the first year. Many families align the unveiling with the first yahrzeit.
Visiting
Visitors traditionally leave a small stone on the grave rather than flowers, and visit around the yahrzeit.
Inscriptions
Inscriptions commonly combine Hebrew and English, often opening with פ״נ (here lies) and closing with תנצב״ה.
Headstone rules in this section
Lawn and monumental areas each set rules on size, materials and inscriptions; monuments must also follow Jewish tradition.
See burial costs at Rookwood Cemetery →More about Jewish burials in Sydney →
Frequently asked
Where is the Jewish section at Rookwood Cemetery?
Jewish sections within the Rookwood Necropolis, Lidcombe
What are the headstone rules in this section?
Lawn and monumental areas each set rules on size, materials and inscriptions; monuments must also follow Jewish tradition.
What are the visiting customs?
Visitors traditionally leave a small stone on the grave rather than flowers, and visit around the yahrzeit.
Other sections at Rookwood Cemetery