A will is essential, but it's not the complete estate plan. These important matters require separate arrangements.
1
Control your superannuation
Reality: Super is distributed according to your binding death benefit nomination with your fund, not your will.
2
Transfer jointly-owned property
Reality: Property owned as "joint tenants" automatically passes to the surviving owner, regardless of your will.
3
Override a binding financial agreement
Reality: Prenups and financial agreements take precedence over will provisions in certain circumstances.
4
Distribute life insurance with a named beneficiary
Reality: If you've named a beneficiary on your policy, that's where the money goes — not through your will.
5
Appoint a guardian with certainty
Reality: Your will expresses your wishes, but courts ultimately decide guardianship based on the child's best interests.
6
Prevent family provision claims
Reality: No matter what your will says, eligible family members can still challenge it under family provision laws.
7
Take effect while you're alive
Reality: A will only operates after death. For lifetime incapacity, you need a Power of Attorney.
8
Make medical decisions
Reality: End-of-life wishes require an Advance Health Directive, not a will.
9
Control business succession automatically
Reality: Business structures (companies, partnerships, trusts) have their own succession rules that may override your will.
10
Guarantee your wishes are followed
Reality: Executors can be challenged, wills can be contested, and assets can be claimed by creditors first.
A will is essential — but it's not the whole picture
Make sure you have all the documents you need to protect your family.
Start Your Will Checklist →Sources
- Australian Law Reform Commission — Estate Planning
- State Trustees Victoria — What a Will Doesn't Cover
- NSW Trustee & Guardian — Complete Estate Planning
- Public Trustee Queensland — Beyond Your Will