The Public Trustee will be hosting a free information session at the Mandurah Community and Seniors Centre on October 13.
The event aims to educate the public about the importance of writing and safely storing their wills and planning for the future administration of their financial affairs and estates.
The session will be presented by Public Trustee director, Etta Palumbo, and will also provide advice and understanding around executor duties and the deceased estate administrative process, as well as other helpful information such as having an enduring power of attorney and enduring power of guardianship in place, and safeguarding against financial or elder abuse in later life.
While most people know they need to write a will, according to research conducted by the Public Trustee, 49 per cent of West Australians have never made a will and a further 34% of the local population acknowledge their will is not up-to-date.
Without a legal will there is potential for the law to step in and decide where your assets go, possibly favouring relatives you resent.
Major life changes such as the birth of a baby, marriage, death of a family member, a medical crisis or buying a home are often triggers for writing a will, however, according to Ms Palumbo, there is no better time than now to start planning for the future.
"Create a will now while there is no pressure and give yourself peace of mind that your loved ones will be protected. If someone passes away without a will, it can cause unnecessary stress for family members at an already emotional time and may result in assets being distributed against your wishes", Ms Palumbo said.
"Writing a will can be easy and cost-effective compared to dying intestate and, at the Public Trustee, we want to ensure that all West Australian's have access to information and services to help them through the process.
"Whether you work in the industry, have an estate plan already in place, have a young family or you would like to assist ageing parents or your spouse, this seminar will be relevant to all, and of great benefit to many."
The events runs from 1.15-2.45pm and will include light refreshments on arrival and all attendees will receive a take home information pack.
Bookings are essential. Call 1300 746 116 or visit www.trybooking.com/BHEGZ.
COVID-19 update: Events will be organised in accordance with Government health guidelines and are subject to change.
