Most parents know a will is about passing on money, property, and belongings. But here’s the truth: a will can (and should) cover so much more than just “who gets what.”
When you’re raising young kids and juggling mortgages, super, and digital lives, your will becomes more than a financial document — it’s a blueprint for your family’s security, care, and legacy.
In this article we outline what to include in your Will (in NSW) that most parents don’t think about (but wish they had).
1. Guardianship: Choosing Who Raises Your Children
This is arguably the most important clause for parents. If something happens to you (and your partner), the court decides who raises your children unless you’ve specified it in your will.
Why it matters:
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Without clear direction, children can end up in lengthy custody disputes.
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The guardian may not be the person you would have chosen.
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Having it written gives your kids stability when they need it most.
How to decide:
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Choose someone who shares your values, parenting style, and has the capacity (financially and emotionally) to raise your kids.
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Always talk to the person beforehand.
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Consider naming a backup guardian, just in case.
Pro tip: You can also leave written guidance for guardians (your parenting wishes, routines, or hopes for your kids’ future) to support them in raising your children as closely to your intentions as possible.
2. Conditional Inheritances: Timing Matters
Did you know that, by default, kids can inherit as soon as they turn 18? For many parents, that feels too young. Your will can set conditions:
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Delay access until 21 or 25.
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Stagger payments (e.g., some at 21, more at 25).
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Allow access earlier only for essentials (education, housing, medical care).
This ensures your children are supported without being overwhelmed by money too early.
3. Charitable Giving: Passing On Your Values
A will isn’t just about money — it’s about values. Adding a small gift to a charity you care about allows you to leave a legacy that reflects what mattered to you in life.
Ideas for parents:
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A donation to children’s hospitals, research organisations, or causes close to your family’s story.
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Setting aside a percentage rather than a fixed amount, so your loved ones remain the main beneficiaries.
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Involving your kids by telling them why you chose that cause, planting seeds of generosity.
4. Digital Legacy: Managing Your Online Life
From baby photos on the cloud to your Facebook account, your online life matters. Yet most wills don’t mention digital assets at all.
What to include:
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Instructions on who can access your online accounts (banking, social media, cloud storage).
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Guidance on whether accounts should be closed, memorialised, or kept active.
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Details on cryptocurrency, online businesses, or subscription accounts.
Even something as simple as leaving access to family photos stored online can mean the world to your kids later.
5. Letters, Memories, and Keepsakes: The Emotional Extras
Not everything of value has a dollar sign attached. A will can also be a place to leave personal touches:
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Letters for your children to read as they grow up.
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Instructions for passing on heirlooms (grandma’s ring, dad’s guitar, family recipes).
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Memory boxes, journals, or voice recordings.
These gestures may seem small, but they often become the most treasured part of an inheritance.
6. Executor Instructions: Choosing the Right Person
Your executor is the person who carries out your wishes. Many parents pick a family member without thinking through the responsibility.
Things to consider:
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Choose someone organised, trustworthy, and capable of handling paperwork and finances.
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Avoid putting extra pressure on someone who is already the guardian of your kids.
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You can appoint a professional executor (like a lawyer) if you prefer impartiality.
A will isn’t just about assets — it’s about love, protection, and legacy.
Many parents are unsure what to include in a will.
By adding these smart extras, you’re not only safeguarding your children’s future but also passing on your values, your memories, and your guidance for years to come.
For parents, these details matter just as much as the “big stuff” like the house or bank accounts.
They ensure your will is truly yours — a reflection of the parent you are and the future you want for your family.
Talk to us today to make sure your legacy is protected, give us a call on (02) 6562 3300 to discuss.
This is the third article in our 4-part series on ‘How To Write A Will’.
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