Sam Piddington takes top funeral industry role

15th Sep 2026

Funerals Australia has announced the appointment of Sam Piddington from Piddingtons Armidale as the new NSW/ACT Divisional President, representing funeral professionals across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.
Sam brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the role and has been an active contributor to Funerals Australia through four years of service on the NSW/ACT Divisional Council.
He is the Managing Director of Piddingtons Armidale, where he has worked full-time for the past 18 years, and is recognised for his commitment to professional standards, education and advocacy within the funeral profession.
As Divisional President, Sam will work closely with members, industry stakeholders and the Funerals Australia National Council to strengthen professional standards, support education and workforce development, and advocate on issues affecting funeral professionals and the families they serve.
Sam said his priorities would include increasing member engagement and involvement across NSW and the ACT, supporting practical and effective regulation, strengthening relationships with industry stakeholders, and expanding education and professional development opportunities for members.
“I am deeply honoured to be appointed NSW/ACT Divisional President of Funerals Australia. Piddingtons has been an active member of the Association for more than 90 years, and I look forward to working with members to strengthen engagement, raise awareness of the value our Association provides, support professional standards and regulation, and create greater opportunities for education and development across our industry.”
“By working together, we can build a stronger, more connected and accountable profession that continues to deliver the highest standards of care to the families and communities who rely on us.”
Funerals Australia National President Asha Dooley welcomed the appointment and said Divisional Presidents play a vital role in ensuring the views and experiences of members are represented.
The appointment comes at an important time for the profession, with changing community expectations and ongoing discussion around professional standards, regulation, workforce development and education.
Sam said he was looking forward to working with the NSW/ACT Divisional Council and members throughout his term.
“I’m looking forward to giving back to a profession that has provided so much reward and purpose throughout my career. By working together through greater awareness, stronger relationships, ongoing education and personal accountability, we can continue to strengthen our profession and better support the families and communities who rely on us.”