19 October, 2008
Good Will Week - Time to update your Will
This Good Will Week (19-25 October), four of Australia’s largest charities suggest all Australians check whether their Wills are up-to-date by using a free and simple online Will health check.
This free 5 minute interactive checklist, available at www.includeacharity.com.au assists anyone who wants to check their most important document - their Will.
"Include a Charity wants everyone to know how important it is to update their Wills when their circumstances change. Too many people in Australia die without a legal Will. Apart from the heartache that this causes for many, it also means that millions of dollars of assets are distributed according to government rules– which differ from state to state,” said Sam Broughton, spokesperson for Include a Charity.
Mr Broughton, says the four charities that make up Include a Charity, Mission Australia, Heart Foundation and Cancer Council have developed the online ‘Will health check’ to raise awareness of the importance of having a legal and current Will that reflects your wishes.
“This online ‘Will health check’ is a great starting point for people who may be overwhelmed by the complexities of creating a Will. It’s intended to assist people to assess the ‘health’ of their Will in a simple, fast and completely private way.”
“Even millionaires and celebrities struggle when it comes to a healthy Will,” said Mr Broughton. “According to newspaper reports, Robert Holmes-a-Court died without a legal Will, even though he had had one prepared. He spent months carrying it around in his briefcase and didn't get round to signing it. Fortunately for his wife, his children were prepared to not claim their substantial entitlements under intestacy rules.”
“Include a Charity have made it easy and all you have to do is log onto www.includeacharity.com.au and complete the online quiz. The website also has information on leaving a bequest in your Will, and the amazing impact that a bequest to your favourite charity can make.”
Mr Broughton expects that many people will be surprised by the ‘ill-health’ of their Will, an awareness that will hopefully lead to Australians ensuring their legacy ends up in the right hands.
“We really encourage people just to think about leaving a bequest to charity and leaving the world a better place,” said Mr. Broughton.
The Public Trustee is also providing a number of opportunities for people to get their Wills written or updated this Good Will Week. Contact your local Public Trustee for more information.
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