NSW Trustee & Guardian’s Wills Video Conference Service Meets Demand Amid Changing Restrictions

Recent stay-at-home orders in NSW have left many in the community contemplating their financial and legal affairs and people are using the extra time at home to catch up on important life admin.

NSW Trustee & Guardian, the state’s largest Will-maker, recognises this demand and offers video conference appointments for people to make a Will during COVID-19 restrictions.

“Video conference appointments mean people can stay home, reduce physical contact, and still complete this critical document,” said Acting Chief Executive Officer Megan Osborne.

“It’s the same level of professional service you would receive in-person: we verify your identity, conduct capacity checks, discuss your wishes and provide expert advice about a range of issues related to your Will, including the role of an executor. The only difference is how we do that, and that’s through our flexible video conference service.”

The government passed a regulation last year under the Electronic Transactions Act 2020 to allow certain legal documents to be witnessed using video conference technology.

Since launching, NSW Trustee & Guardian has seen an uptake for the video conference serves as an immediate solution to changing restrictions. It is estimated that almost 50 per cent of adults in New South Wales do not have a current Will in place.

“Making a Will is the best way people can protect themselves, their loved ones and futureproof their valuables and assets,” said Ms Osborne. “This is our commitment to making our services as accessible as possible for New South Wales residents.” The Will-making service is free for people on the full Centrelink Age Pension.

For more information about the video conference service or in-person appointments across NSW, visit tag.nsw.gov.au/iwill