Enduring power of attorney: why it's worth signing now

Nobody likes to imagine a day when they can't manage their own affairs. But illness, an accident or ageing can make it real. An enduring power of attorney lets you decide in advance, while you're clear-minded, who will look after you and how.

What it is

An enduring power of attorney is a document in which you appoint someone you trust, or several people, to make decisions for you if you lose the ability to do so. It can cover three areas:

• Property: bank accounts, assets, payments
• Health: medical treatment and decisions about your health
• Personal matters: where you'll live, who will support you and what your daily life looks like

Why it's better than guardianship

Without one, if you lose the ability to decide, a court may appoint a guardian for you. An enduring power of attorney keeps the choice in your hands: you decide who, in which areas, and with what instructions.

How it's done

The document is prepared and certified by a lawyer specially trained for it, and deposited with the Administrator General. It's best to do it while you're healthy, because you can only sign when you fully understand what it means.