The short answer
Yes. There’s nothing in Australian law that requires a will to be handwritten, typed by a lawyer, or produced in any particular way. What matters is that the will meets the legal requirements for validity.
What makes any will valid
In Australia, a valid will must:
- Be in writing — Typed or handwritten, doesn’t matter
- Be signed by you — At the end of the document
- Be witnessed by two adults — Who are present at the same time, watch you sign, and then sign themselves
- Show testamentary intention — It must be clear you intend this to be your will
🇦🇺 In Australia: Witnessing requirements vary slightly by state. In most states, witnesses cannot be beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries. Check your state's specific rules.
What online will services provide
A good online will service:
- Asks you the right questions to capture your wishes
- Generates a properly formatted legal document
- Provides clear instructions for signing and witnessing
- Uses templates reviewed by lawyers
- Includes guidance on what to do next
The technology is just a tool for creating the document. The legal validity comes from following the proper signing process.
When online wills work well
Online wills are well-suited for:
- Straightforward situations (spouse, children, clear beneficiaries)
- People who understand their assets and wishes
- Those comfortable using technology
- Situations without complex family dynamics
When you might need more help
Consider a lawyer if you have:
- Blended families with competing interests
- Business ownership or complex structures
- Assets in multiple countries
- Family members who might contest the will
- Significant wealth requiring tax planning
- Special needs beneficiaries
💡 The real question: It's not "is an online will valid?" but "is an online will right for my situation?" Validity is about following the rules. Suitability is about matching the tool to your needs.
Common mistakes that invalidate wills
These mistakes can invalidate any will, online or otherwise:
- ❌ Not having two witnesses present when you sign
- ❌ Having a witness who is also a beneficiary
- ❌ Not signing at the end of the document
- ❌ Making changes by crossing out or writing over
- ❌ Not having mental capacity when signing
What to do next
- Assess whether your situation suits an online will
- Choose a reputable service with lawyer-reviewed templates
- Follow the signing instructions exactly
- Store the original safely
- Tell your executor where to find it
Related: Online wills vs lawyers — which is better? · How do I sign my will correctly?