Making a will in Australia can be as simple as buying a DIY will kit or as thorough as hiring a solicitor. This guide compares costs, validity and risk, and when each path makes sense. We also show how LifeVault keeps your plan organised—whichever option you choose.
Quick answer (2-minute guide)
- DIY is cheap and can be valid for simple estates—if you follow execution rules precisely.
- Lawyer-drafted costs more but reduces ambiguity and future dispute risk.
- Use a lawyer for blended families, trusts, business interests, exclusions, special needs or likely disputes.
- Regardless: store the original safely; keep a scanned copy and executor instructions in LifeVault.
What a valid Australian will requires (and why formality matters)
Australian states and territories share similar formalities: a written will signed by the testator in the presence of two adult witnesses, who sign in the testator’s presence. These rules prevent fraud and mistakes. If you don’t follow them, a DIY will might fail—even if the content is fine. Avoid “interested” witnesses (beneficiaries or their partners) to prevent gifts being void or disputed.
What DIY will kits actually cover (and what they don’t)
Kits handle basics: naming your executor, beneficiaries, specific gifts and signatures. They’re not great at complex planning like testamentary trusts, blended families, business assets, conditions on gifts or nuanced contingencies. If your scenario doesn’t fit the template, that’s a sign to get legal advice.
Typical costs in 2025 (kits, public trustees, private firms)
- DIY kits: ~A$20–A$50; some online tools up to ~A$100.
- State/Public Trustees: often low-cost or fee-waived if appointed executor; check your state’s current schedule.
- Private solicitors: ~A$500–A$2,000+ depending on complexity and inclusions.
Lower upfront cost can mean higher downstream risk if mistakes lead to probate issues. Pay for certainty where complexity exists.
Risk matrix: simple vs complex estates
| Estate Scenario | DIY Viability | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Single person, few assets, one beneficiary or simple equal split | Low risk | DIY can work; follow witnessing rules and name alternates. |
| Couple with adult kids, home and savings | Moderate risk | DIY may work; use a lawyer for trusts, staggered ages or potential disputes. |
| Blended family, multiple properties or investments | High risk | See a lawyer; consider protective trusts and precise drafting. |
| Special needs, exclusions, business/trust structures | High risk | Get legal advice; bespoke clauses and planning likely required. |
When to see a lawyer (checklist of triggers)
- Blended/complex families or you plan to exclude someone who may contest.
- Minor children or dependants with special needs (consider testamentary trusts).
- Business ownership, SMSF or significant/overseas assets.
- You’re unsure about wording or the kit’s scope; you need custom provisions.
How LifeVault reduces friction either way
- Store a scan + note original location: Keep the original safe; note its location in LifeVault.
- Executor pack: Asset inventory, policy numbers, contacts and checklists inside your vault.
- Keep nominations visible: Log super beneficiary nominations and insurance beneficiaries.
- Share when needed: Tag your executor for access at the right time.
Related: Letter of Wishes: what it can and can’t do
FAQs
Are DIY wills legal in Australia?
Yes—if formalities are met (written, signed, two witnesses present together). The risk is execution or wording errors, not that DIY is inherently invalid.
How much does a will cost with a lawyer vs a kit?
DIY: ~$20–$50 (some online options higher). Lawyer: generally a few hundred to a couple of thousand depending on complexity. State Trustees may offer lower-cost services.
Can I sign/witness a will over Zoom?
Some states allow forms of remote witnessing with strict steps; others require in-person signing. Check your state’s current rules before relying on remote witnessing.