About Us

Our Story

The Headstone Project came into being in Tasmania in 2011. The project is an entirely voluntary project dedicated to locating and ensuring that all Australian World War 1 veterans who served overseas during World War 1 have their final resting places suitably marked.

The Headstone Project South Australia volunteers search for World War 1 veterans throughout South Australia who have died and whose graves are unmarked. Volunteer investigators confirm the gravesite, research the veterans military and family history then seek to locate a living relative or descendant. A comprehensive report is then compiled.

It is a requirement of most cemetery authorities and relevant government departments that every effort if made to trace and contact living relatives/descendants.

Once all enquiries are completed and appropriate cemetery authority and government requirements are met, the gravesite will be marked with a prescribed, military headstone consisting of a pedestal headstone and plaque that acknowledges the veterans service to Australia.

Whilst every effort is made to install headstones in a timely matter once all research is completed, appropriate consents have been given and funding is available, please note it can take some time before a headstone can be installed.

Relatives and/or descendants are not asked to contribute toward the cost of the memorial.

Based on population and statistics, The Headstone Project SA conservatively estimate there are in excess of 2500 World War 1 servicemen and women buried in unmarked graves in over 900 cemeteries throughout the State.

Being an entirely voluntary organisation, The Headstone Project SA is totally dependent on raising funds through various government and non-government grants and welcomes donations from corporations, companies and individuals as well as sponsorship for goods and services.

If you would like to volunteer with us, sponsor or donate to HPSA please message us via our

Contact Page

The Australian Government is committed to remembering the service of eligible veterans through the provision of official commemoration.

Funding Criteria