We often hear about Wills, but one document just as important during your lifetime is an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA).
In Queensland, an EPOA lets you legally appoint someone you trust to make decisions for you if, one day, you’re unable to make them yourself.
What Is an Enduring Power of Attorney?
An Enduring Power of Attorney is a legal document where you choose one or more people (called your attorney/s) to make decisions about:
- Personal and health matters — things like where you live, what medical treatment you receive, and day-to-day personal decisions.
- Financial matters — managing your bank accounts, paying bills, or selling property.
The word enduring means it continues to operate even if you lose the capacity to make decisions for yourself due to illness, injury, or age-related conditions like dementia.
Why Is It Important?
Without an EPOA:
- No one automatically has the legal right to make decisions for you, even if they’re your spouse or adult child.
- Loved ones might need to apply to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) for permission to manage your affairs — which can be costly, time-consuming, and stressful.
Having an EPOA in place ensures:
- You stay in control by choosing who you trust to step in when needed.
- Decisions can be made quickly and in your best interests if something happens.
- It saves your family the extra worry and legal hurdles at an already difficult time.
When Should You Make One?
If you’re over 18 and have decision-making capacity — the best time is now. Accidents and health issues can happen unexpectedly.
Like your Will, your EPOA should be reviewed regularly, especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or changes in family relationships.
Need Help?
Making an Enduring Power of Attorney is straightforward with the right guidance.
We’re here to help you put the right documents in place for peace of mind. Get in touch today.
