Queenslanders Urged to Update Their Wills as Property Prices Surge
- aylwardgame
- Dec 4
- 2 min read
With property values across Queensland reaching record highs, legal experts are warning residents to review and update their wills to avoid costly disputes. As estate sizes grow, so does the number of contested matters — many of which could be prevented with a valid, up-to-date will.
Why Updating Your Will Matters
According to recent national reports, including ABC News’ coverage of rising estate disputes, an estimated 60% of Australians die without a valid will. In NSW alone, more than 1,400 contested estate cases were filed in 2024 — a trend now emerging rapidly in Queensland.
Senior Estate Lawyer Kauri Burgess of Aylward Game Solicitors explains:“A will isn’t just paperwork — it’s legal protection for your family. Without one, you lose control over who gets what.”
Rising Property Prices = Larger Estates, More Disputes
Queensland’s booming property market has created more million-dollar estates, especially among families with:
Blended or second marriages
Multiple beneficiaries
Complex property holdings
Significant superannuation balances
These factors often lead to conflict if there is no valid will in place.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in QLD
If you die intestate:
The Public Trustee of Queensland may take over your estate
Assets may go to unintended beneficiaries
Loved ones may face lengthy delays and high legal costs
This process often causes emotional and financial stress for families already dealing with loss.
Superannuation Is Not Automatically Included
Many Queenslanders are unaware that:
Superannuation is not covered by a will unless you have a binding death benefit nomination
Over 6.5 million Australians lack a valid nomination
This can result in large sums going to unexpected people
DIY Wills Are Risky
Cheap DIY will kits often lead to:
Invalid documents
Missing executors or unclear instructions
Legal challenges that cost families tens of thousands
“A DIY will might save money now — but cost far more later,” warns Ms Burgess.
When to Update Your Will
Review your will every 3–5 years or after:
Marriage, separation, or divorce
Birth of children or grandchildren
Buying or selling property
Starting a business
Changes to superannuation or tax laws
Get Professional Estate Planning Help
Aylward Game Solicitors provides tailored estate planning across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.
📞 (07) 3236 0001
Comments