Take control of your future this National Wills Week

National Wills Week is a reminder for all Australians to take an important step in planning for the future by making a Will or reviewing the one they already have.

Most of us know that having a Will is important. But it can be one of those things we mean to get around to and keep putting off as life gets busy.

Research shows that while many people understand the value of having a Will, a significant number still don't have one.

National Wills Week, from 7 to 13 September 2026, is a good opportunity to stop putting it off and take some time to make sure your wishes are clear and your affairs are in order.

Why having a Will matters

A valid Will sets out what you want to happen to your money, property and other belongings after you die.

It can make things easier for the people you leave behind by giving them clear guidance about your wishes at what can already be a difficult time.

Having a Will can:

• help make sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes
• reduce uncertainty and the potential for disagreements among family members
• make it easier for those responsible for managing your estate
• give you confidence that your wishes are clearly recorded.

If you die without a valid Will, the law determines how your estate is distributed. This may not be the way you would have chosen.

Life changes, so should your Will

Making a Will isn't always a once-only task. As your life changes, what you want your Will to say may change too.

Think about what may have changed since you last made or reviewed your Will. Have you:

• married or separated?
• welcomed children or grandchildren?
• bought or sold a home?
• had a significant change in your finances?
• had changes in important relationships in your life?

These are all good reasons to take another look at your Will.

Even if nothing major has changed, it's worth reviewing your Will from time to time to make sure it still reflects what you want.

There are different ways to make a Will

There are different options for making a Will, depending on your circumstances and needs.

You may choose to engage a solicitor, use the services of the Public Guardian and Trustee or access other legal services available to you.

Getting the right help can make sure your Will clearly records your wishes and is properly prepared

How the Public Guardian and Trustee can help

If making a Will has been sitting on your to-do list, the Public Guardian and Trustee may be able to help.

We provide a range of Will and estate services to Territorians, including:

• preparing Wills for eligible Territorians
• administering deceased estates
• securely storing Wills and Advance Personal Plans at no cost.

Keeping your Will somewhere safe is also important. Your family and loved ones need to be able to find it when it is needed. The Public Guardian and Trustee can securely store your original Will at no cost.

For more information about our Will-making and storage services, visit the Public Guardian and Trustee Making a Will page.

Take the first step today

Making or reviewing your Will doesn't have to be complicated, but it is an important part of planning for the future.

Whether you've never made a Will, have been meaning to get around to it or haven't looked at yours for years, National Wills Week is a good time to take that first step.

Life changes, so should your Will.