Is your Will a true reflection of your life as it stands today? As we approach Wills Week (1–7 September 2025), Queenslanders are being urged to stop treating their estate planning as a “set-and-forget” task.
This year’s theme—”Life changes, so should your Will”—serves as a vital reminder, particularly for older Queenslanders, that an outdated legal document can be just as problematic as having no document at all.
The Reality Gap in Queensland Estate Planning
Recent research from the Queensland Public Trustee reveals a concerning gap between having a Will and having one that actually works:
87% of Queenslanders aged 65+ have made a Will.
However, nearly half of this group haven’t reviewed their documents in years.
32% have never updated their Will.
11% haven’t touched their Will in over a decade or simply cannot remember the last time they looked at it.
Why “Static” Wills Are Risky
An outdated Will may no longer be legally valid or could fail to account for new family members and assets. This often leads to expensive legal complications, family disputes, or your estate being distributed in a way you never intended.
Under Queensland law, certain life milestones can even revoke parts of your Will automatically. The Public Trustee strongly recommends a formal revision following major life events, including:
Family Shifts: Separation, divorce, or entering a new de facto relationship.
New Arrivals: The birth or adoption of children or grandchildren.
Property & Assets: Buying or selling a home or significant business interests.
Loss: The passing of a loved one, a named beneficiary, or your chosen executor.
Take Action This Wills Week
Don’t leave your legacy to chance. While DIY kits exist, the complexities of Queensland’s Succession Act mean that professional oversight is often the only way to guarantee your wishes are enforceable.
It is best to speak to a qualified solicitor for personalised information on whether you need a codicil (a formal update) or a completely new Will.