By Anita Koochew
Making a Will might be something you haven’t given much thought to, but it is one of the most important things we can do to protect the people and possessions we care about.
It is estimated that more than half of all Australians do not have a current and valid Will that reflects their wishes. People without a Will are leaving themselves and their families at risk of significant unintended problems later.
For example, quirks in the law could mean that assets of couples without children will not be divided evenly between their surviving family members or that family members who have greater needs are not properly provided for.
At the very least, it can mean that difficult financial and legal issues need to be discussed and negotiated by close family members during a time of grief and sadness.
A Will gives you the chance to make decisions about things that are important to you. This could include your wishes around the guardianship of children, care of pets, who will receive sentimental items and funeral instructions. It also offers you a chance to have important conversations with people about these issues.
Whilst there are resources like Will kits available, they can be difficult to complete accurately, and at the very least should be checked by a lawyer to make sure they are valid. You can contact Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) for referrals to appropriate professional services.
If you already have a Will, it is worth checking it every now and again to make sure it still reflects your wishes and accounts for any significant changes in relationships, new family members, or changes in assets.
Locals can also find out more at Eastern Community Legal Centre’s free event with Eastern Regional Libraries online at 2-3:30pm Monday 22 November. The session will include other aspects of future planning including powers of attorney. Book now at www.tinyurl.com/planningyourfuturewithECLC or by phoning 1300 737 277.
During this time of social distancing, ECLC continues to offer free legal, social and financial assistance by telephone and video call to people living in the eastern region of Melbourne, including across the Yarra Ranges. Please call 1300 3252 00 (1300 ECLC 00) or email eclc@eclc.org.au to find out how we can assist you.
