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Future Planning

Find practical information on a range of future planning topics, as well as links to key service providers.

    Last updated: 19 March 2025
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    Senior woman looking over documents
    Future planning

    Advance care directive

    An Advance Care Directive is a written document with instructions for medical treatment you would want to receive if you lose capacity.

    Image of an older bearded man wearing glasses
    Future planning

    Be rights savvy!

    If you’re not feeling in control of your life, understanding your rights and how they apply could make all the difference.

    Middle aged couple and their dog
    Future planning

    Future planning

    Future planning is about taking steps now to maximise your independence and wellbeing in older age.

    Image of an older woman and a younger woman embracing
    Powers of attorney

    Can a decision maker control access?

    Rights count in decisions about access and contact.

    Senior woman with adult daughter going over paperwork
    Family agreements

    Family Agreements

    Living with your adult child? Co-purchasing property? Or building an extension or granny flat with family? Learn more about the value of setting up a formal family agreement.

    Senior man looking out of a window with a sad look on his face
    Future planning

    Funeral arrangement disputes

    After someone passes away, it’s not uncommon for disputes to break out, especially if the deceased person has not left a will.

    Image of an older woman wearing a smart watch
    Aged care

    How technology can support ageing well

    From assistive technology such as walking sticks to digital devices and wearables, technology can enhance our safety and wellness in our later years.

    Senior couple in the park
    Powers of attorney

    Enduring Powers of Attorney

    On this page you'll find helpful articles to get started to plan, change or revoke your enduring power of attorney. You'll also find articles on key issues, resolving conflicts and practical assistance on how to protect yourself from abuse.

    Image of an older Arab man
    Guardianships

    Guardianships in Australia

    If you lose capacity, an appointed guardian can protect you by supporting or managing your decision-making. Find out how guardianships work for older Australians and who can be involved.

    An image of future planning documents such as a Will and an Enduring Power of Attorney
    Future planning

    Storing your future planning documents

    You’ve taken the time to make your will, power of attorney and other documents to safeguard your future. Deciding where to store them safely is an important step in the process.

    Image of a retirement village facade and front lawn
    Future planning

    Tips for deciding about retirement village living

    Buying into a retirement village is not just a personal decision, but also a financial one. Understanding your options is important.

    Im age on an older woman in a white long sleeve t-shirt hold a mug, looking out of a window
    Future planning

    Wills and how they work

    Learn how to make a Will that's right for you. Find out more about what to include, key roles and how to resolve or avoid common issues.

    Future Planning News

    AllMore from this section
    Photo of a young man embracing an older lady in a blue armchair
    Future planning

    "We need to know before you go"

    In recognition of National Advance Care Planning Week and National Close the Gap Day, First Nations people are encouraged to yarn about future health care

    06/03/2025
    Photo of couple in grey sweats jogging
    Future planning

    5 tips for ageing well

    Listen to Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia CEO Geoff Rowe share how to help smooth the path of life on the The Last Post Radio Show podcast.

    06/03/2025
    Photo of a woman in a blue shirt reading through paperwork
    Future planning

    Want your loved ones to inherit your super?

    15/02/2025
    Photo of woman wearing red glasses and pink jumper
    Future planning

    LGBTQ+ pal care survey needs input

    25/01/2025
    Photo of a glum man wearing a red jacket
    Future planning

    ‘Is this all there is?’ Retirement can be a painful transition if we don’t adjust our thinking

    18/01/2025

    Future Planning Events

    AllMore from this section
    Protecting your rights
    Financial abuse

    Protecting Your Rights: Understanding Elder Abuse, Enduring Powers of Guardianship & Attorney

    As we age, it’s essential to plan for the future and protect ourselves from financial, emotional, and physical harm.

    6/6/25
    Northern Suburbs Community Legal Centre 10 Cobbler Place Mirrabooka WA 6061
    06
    Jun

    Future Planning Resources

    AllMore from this section
    Engaging with Ageing: What Matters as We Grow Older by Anne Ring
    Future planning

    Engaging with Ageing: What Matters as We Grow Older

    A book review by Eamonn Murphy

    national
    books
    Anne Ring
    Substitute Decision Maker Toolkit
    Future planning

    Substitute Decision-Maker Toolkit

    The aim of this resource is to give Substitute Decision-Makers helpful tools and resources to carry out their role.

    sa
    tool
    Office of the Public Advocate SA
    Seniors Information Resource 2024-2025
    Aged care

    New Seniors Information booklet

    Navigating the many services and concessions available to seniors across WA just got easier.

    wa
    brochure
    Advocare
    What is Capacity?
    Future planning

    Compass video: What is Capacity?

    ‘Capacity’ is a term often used when talking about a person’s ability to make decisions for themselves and understand t...

    national
    video
    COMPASS
    LGBTQIA+ person

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