Not All Stonemasons Are the Same
Monumental masonry is a specialised trade—and choosing the wrong provider can lead to costly mistakes, delays, or non-compliant installations.
When you choose a member of the Master Stonemasons Association Victoria, you’re choosing:
Specialists in Memorials
Our members work exclusively in cemetery monuments, headstones, and memorial design.
Accountability
Our members are bound by a Code of Ethics and professional standards.
Knowledge of Cemetery Regulations
Each cemetery has strict requirements. Our members understand them and ensure your memorial is compliant from the start.
Quality That Lasts Generations
We work with natural stone and proven techniques designed to endure.
Respect & Care
We understand this is not just a purchase—it’s a deeply personal decision.
Find a trusted monumental mason near you
What to Expect When Purchasing a Memorial
Arranging a memorial is an important process. While every family’s needs are different, most memorials follow the same basic steps.
Step 1 – Consultation
Your monumental mason will discuss the cemetery location, memorial style, materials, inscription details and budget.
Step 2 – Design & Quotation
You will receive a design proposal and quotation outlining the memorial, materials, costs and estimated timeframe.
Step 3 – Cemetery Approval
Memorials require approval from the relevant cemetery authority. Your mason will typically manage this process on your behalf.
Step 4 – Manufacture
Once approved, the memorial is crafted using the selected materials and design specifications.
Step 5 – Installation
The memorial is professionally installed in accordance with cemetery requirements and industry standards.
Step 6 – Completion
Your memorial is completed and ready to serve as a lasting tribute for generations to come.
Cemetery Requirements
Arranging a memorial is an important process. While every family’s needs are different, most memorials follow the same basic steps.
Why Is Approval Required?
Most cemeteries require approval before a memorial can be installed, altered or restored.
Applications are typically assessed for:
- Size and dimensions
- Design and materials
- Inscription details
- Site location
- Structural compliance
What Restrictions May Apply?
Requirements vary between cemeteries and may include limits on:
- Memorial size
- Materials and finishes
- Styles and artwork
- Foundation requirements
Cemetery Fees
Many cemeteries charge permit or administration fees for memorial applications. These fees vary and are separate from the cost of the memorial.
Why Use an Experienced Monumental Mason?
An experienced monumental mason can manage the approval process and help ensure your memorial meets all cemetery requirements and relevant standards.
Choosing a member of our association means choosing a mason who is committed to doing things properly—every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Arranging a memorial is an important process. While every family’s needs are different, most memorials follow the same basic steps.
Why should I choose an Association member?
Association members are committed to ethical business practices, quality workmanship, industry standards and professional conduct. They are also bound by the Association’s Code of Conduct.
What is a memorial?
A memorial is a permanent tribute created to honour and remember a loved one. It may include a headstone, monument, plaque, grave surround or other commemorative structure.
What materials are commonly used?
Most memorials are created using granite, marble, sandstone, slate or bronze. Your mason can recommend the most suitable material based on your preferences, budget and cemetery conditions.
How long does the process take?
Timeframes vary depending on cemetery approvals, material availability and design complexity. Your mason will provide an estimated completion timeframe during the quotation stage.
Can I create a custom design?
Yes. Most monumental masons can create personalised memorials incorporating unique shapes, artwork, photographs, religious symbols or other meaningful elements.
Can inscriptions be written in languages other than English?
Yes. Most modern monumental masons can accurately reproduce inscriptions in a wide range of languages and scripts.
Do cemeteries need to approve memorials?
Yes. Approval is generally required before a memorial can be installed, altered or restored.
Are memorials built to Australian Standards?
Association members are expected to follow relevant Australian Standards and industry best practices to ensure safety, durability and quality workmanship.
Can an existing memorial be repaired or restored?
In many cases, yes. Monumental masons can assess damaged, weathered or unstable memorials and recommend suitable restoration options.
What should I do if a memorial is vandalised or damaged?
Contact the cemetery and your monumental mason as soon as possible. They can assess the damage and discuss repair or restoration options.
Will I receive a written quotation?
Reputable monumental masons should provide a detailed written quotation outlining the memorial design, inclusions, costs and expected completion timeframe.