Wills Week 2022: look after loved ones and your pets too

Queensland Public Trustee Samay Zhouand encourages people considering making a will also appoint someone to look after their pets.

"Talking about advance life planning can be confronting but it's essential to plan ahead," Mr Zhouand said.

"By making a will or giving someone enduring power of attorney to look after your affairs if you can't, you can ensure your wishes will be taken into account."

Mr Zhouand said nearly half of Queenslanders do not have a valid will, and almost 20 per cent die each year without one.

"This can create a tremendous amount of uncertainty and distress for those left behind by not knowing what steps to take," he said.

"This year you can visit our Wills Week website to register for free webinars hosted by the Public Trustee and Queensland Law Society, to find out more about making a will and enduring power of attorney."

The RSPCA is supporting Wills Week, with its Home Ever After program.

The organisation's philanthropy specialist Aileen McGregor-Lowndes said the program was the perfect option to help rehome pets if owners could no longer look after them.

"Those of us lucky to have animals in our lives really need to think about planning ahead if we're rushed to hospital and our pets are left without someone to care for them," Ms McGregor-Lowndes said.

"It's really important to make a will and leave instructions about how you want your pet cared for - and by whom - so your wishes are taken into account.

"If you want the RSPCA to care for and rehome your pet, it's a good idea to register your pet with us so we know about their needs, personality and preferences - everything from their favourite food to how they like to be cuddled."

It will also need a copy of the instructions in your will to make sure your wishes are followed and to complete the registration of your pet.

Queensland Law Society president Kara Thomson said making a will is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family - "but just as important is the conversation you have with a solicitor before you make a will".

"People are often surprised to learn that some of their assets may not be dealt with in their will, and other steps are necessary to implement an estate plan," she said.

"It's vital to have professional advice, and solicitors right across Queensland can provide this, including 43 accredited as specialists in succession law."

You can find a solicitor to help you using our Find a Solicitor search tool on the Queensland Law Society website.

For more information click HERE