As part of this year’s Council Of The Aging Seniors Week (October 14-19), the Public Trustee is encouraging Tasmanians to think beyond financial assets and start sharing the stories behind their most treasured belongings.
CEO of the Public Trustee Todd Kennedy said in a world often focused on material wealth, the Public Trustee’s message is: it’s the memories that matter.
“By sharing stories with loved ones, you ensure they treasure the emotional significance of your belongings—not just their material value.”
This Seniors Week the Public Trustee is urging proactive steps to secure your financial, legal, and healthcare wishes for the future.
“Estate planning may seem overwhelming, but taking action now will save your loved ones from unnecessary emotional and financial stress in the future.
“Preparing a Will and other estate documents today allows your loved ones to focus on cherishing memories, rather than worrying about managing possessions or settling disputes.”
An estate plan typically includes: an Enduring Power of Attorney for financial decisions; an Enduring Guardianship for medical or personal decisions; an Advance Care Directive detailing your healthcare preferences; and a Will to guide the distribution of your estate.
“These documents are more than just legal paperwork. They’re roadmaps that provide clarity and support for your loved ones, ensuring your wishes are respected if you can no longer make decisions.”
Without these preparations, the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) may have to appoint someone to make decisions on your behalf.
To provide community education about estate planning, the Public Trustee will host free seminars across the state during Seniors Week, offering practical advice on how to prepare a Will and manage your financial, medical, and legal affairs.
The seminars will be held:
October 15, 10am at Burnie’s UTAS Cradle Coast Campus
October 15, 3pm at Devonport’s Paranaple Centre
October 16, 10am at Launceston’s Conference Centre,
October 17, 10am at Hobart’s Rydges
For more information or book to attend a seminar, visit www.publictrustee.tas.gov.au/seniors week or call 1800 068 784.
For media enquiries or interviews contact: Brad Nowland 0439 614 893