A written testimony as to how you want your assets distributed after your death and who you appoint to ensure your wishes are met.

If you are over 18 years old and: • have ever been employed; • have any assets (e.g bank account, car, or house); • have children, especially in a blended family; • are in a relationship; or • simply live with your mates, YOU need a Will to ensure that those you love and care about will be readily able to sort out your estate in the event of your death. For younger people, an early death is usually totally unexpected and therefore, they do not have opportunity to make a "last minute" Will.

You can make a Power of Attorney document appointing someone of your choice to manage your financial affairs on your behalf, should the need arise, or at any time, on the terms you specify. An Enduring Power of Attorney, requires a Solicitor's certificate if you wish for your Attorney to be able to continue assisting you if you lose mental capacity - this can include if you become unconscious from, e.g a sporting injury, accident or stroke. If you do not appoint an Attorney of your own choice, the NSW Trustee & Guardian will step in to manage your finances, for which they will charge hefty fees.

If you are over 18yo, and lose mental capacity, even temporarily eg if you become unconscious from a stroke, sporting injury or other accident, you can have someone who loves and cares about you making vital lifestyle decisions on your behalf. IF this is your preference, you will need to have a formal Enduring Power of Guardianship document in place. This document must be prepared by a solicitor and it is only triggered IF you lose mental capacity. If you do not appoint a Guardian of your own choice, the NSW Trustee & Guardian will step in to make decisions about your life, for which they will charge hefty fees.

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