You spend every day planning for your kids — what they’ll eat, how they’ll learn, where they’ll feel safe. But have you planned for the one thing that matters most: their future if you’re no longer here?
Writing a will might not be high on your to-do list, but if you own a home and have young children, it’s one of the most important documents you’ll ever create.
And the good news?
It doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- The step-by-step process of writing a will
- Why it’s essential for parents with kids and property
- Common mistakes to avoid
- The best way to make sure your wishes are carried out
Why Every Mum Needs a Will
Without a valid will, the law decides who gets your home, your savings, and — most importantly — who looks after your children. That might not reflect your wishes. Writing a will ensures:
- Your children’s guardians are chosen by you (not the courts)
- Your house and assets go to the people you love most
- Your partner isn’t left dealing with unnecessary legal battles
- Your family has clear instructions, reducing stress at a difficult time
Step-by-Step: How to Write a Will
1. List What You Own
Write down your major assets: house, savings, superannuation, investments, vehicles, valuables, even digital assets like online accounts and photos.
2. Decide Who Gets What
Think about how you want your estate divided — your partner, children, or others. Be specific to avoid disputes later.
3. Choose Guardians for Your Children
Perhaps the most important step as a parent. Who would raise your kids if you weren’t around? Pick someone who shares your values, has stability, and can provide the kind of future you want for your children.
4. Appoint an Executor
This is the person who carries out your wishes. Choose someone responsible and trustworthy — often a partner, sibling, or close friend.
5. Write Your Will
You can:
- Use an online template (quick and cheap, but limited for complex family situations), or
- Work with a lawyer (the safest way to ensure everything is correct, especially with kids and property).
6. Sign and Witness Correctly
In Australia, your will must be signed in front of two independent adult witnesses. If it’s not done properly, your will may be invalid.
7. Store It Safely
Keep your will in a secure place and let your executor know where to find it. Some people store it with their lawyer, in a safety deposit box, or with state trustee services.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to update your will after major life events (new child, marriage, buying property).
- Not naming a guardian, leaving the courts to decide.
- DIY errors in signing or wording that make the will invalid.
- Assuming superannuation or life insurance is automatically covered — you usually need separate beneficiary nominations.
Writing a will isn’t just a legal document — it’s an act of love. It’s how you make sure your kids are cared for, your partner isn’t left struggling, and your home goes to the right hands.
Whether you start with a simple draft or work with a lawyer for a watertight plan, the most important step is this: don’t put it off.
Your family’s security is worth the few hours it takes to put your wishes in writing. If you have any questions or would like to get this process started, contact us on (02) 6562 3300 – we are here to help!
You can learn more about why it’s so important to have a will here: Making A Will
This is the first article in our 4-part series on ‘How To Write A Will’.
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