Estate Planning in Victoria: Why You Need a Will and Power of Attorney

Introduction

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s essential for anyone who wants to protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are carried out. In Victoria, having a valid Will and Power of Attorney helps you plan for the future, safeguard your assets, and reduce stress for your family.

At Kennon Lawyers, our experienced estate planning lawyers in Melbourne can guide you through every step — from preparing your Will to appointing a trusted decision-maker under a Power of Attorney.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning involves organising your personal, financial, and legal affairs to ensure your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes after you pass away or if you lose capacity.

A complete estate plan in Victoria typically includes:

• A Will — to decide who receives your property and assets.

• An Enduring Power of Attorney — to authorise someone you trust to make financial and legal decisions if you cannot.

• An Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker — to ensure your healthcare choices are respected.

Proper planning gives you peace of mind that your affairs are in order and your family is protected.

Why You Need a Will

A Will is a legally binding document that sets out how your estate will be distributed after your death. Without one, your assets will be divided according to the laws of intestacy, which may not reflect your true wishes.

A valid Will allows you to:

• Choose who inherits your assets and personal belongings.

• Appoint a trusted executor to manage your estate.

• Nominate guardians for your children.

• Prevent disputes among family members.

• Reduce potential legal and tax complications.

Our estate planning lawyers ensure your Will is clear, valid, and tailored to your personal and financial circumstances.

The Importance of a Power of Attorney

A Power of Attorney is just as vital as a Will. It allows you to appoint someone (known as your attorney) to make decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity through illness, injury, or age.

In Victoria, there are two main types:

• Enduring Power of Attorney (Financial and Personal) — gives authority over financial and personal decisions.

• Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker — covers medical and healthcare choices.

Having these documents ensures your affairs can continue smoothly and your wishes are respected even if you’re unable to communicate them yourself.

At Kennon Lawyers, we take a compassionate and thorough approach to estate planning. Our experienced team can:

• Draft clear and valid Wills tailored to your needs.

• Prepare Powers of Attorney and medical decision documents.

• Review and update existing estate planning documents.

• Advise on estate administration and probate when the time comes

We work closely with you to make sure your plan reflects your wishes, protects your loved ones, and minimises future disputes.

Don’t leave your estate to chance. Ensure your Will and Power of Attorney are properly prepared and legally sound.

Contact Kennon Lawyers today to arrange a confidential consultation with an experienced estate planning lawyer in Melbourne.

Visit www.kennonlawyers.com.au or call (03) 9828 1456 to start planning your future with confidence.