Your Will

do I need a will?

Everyone over 18 years old can and should make a Will.

Your Will is one of the most important documents you will ever sign.

Not having a Will, or having a badly written Will, may lead to your assets being distributed against your wishes - or worse still, cause disputes amongst your family. 

If you die without having made a Will, in Western Australia, the Administration Act 1903 (WA) sets out who will receive your estate. You will then have no say in how it is distributed (because you'll be dead…)

For example, if you die without having made a Will and you are separated from your husband/wife (but not yet divorced), your ex will still receive a substantial portion of your estate under the Administration Act 1903 on your death because you are still married.  

A good rule of thumb is that if a major life event occurs (or is going to occur!) such as

• marriage

• separation/divorce

• having children

• buying or selling your home or other major asset

it is worthwhile making a Will or reviewing your existing Will to ensure it still sets out your wishes.