Life can change in an instant. Taking the time to put the right legal documents in place is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your future self and your loved ones.

Whether you're 25 or 75, it’s never too early to have a plan.

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What is a Medical Treatment Decision Maker?

A medical treatment decision maker (MTDM) is someone you legally appoint to make medical and healthcare decisions on your behalf if you're ever unable to do so.

Whoever you choose should be someone you trust to respect your values and preferences.

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Having a MTDM:

·        Ensures your voice is heard even if you can’t speak for yourself

·        Reduces stress and uncertainty for your family

·        Helps medical teams act confidently in your best interest

·        Prevents disagreements among loved ones

You can appoint more than one person to act as your medical treatment decision maker, but only one person acts at any one time.

To appoint a medical treatment decision maker, you need to complete an ‘appointment of medical treatment decision maker’ form, available here.

What is an Enduring Power of Attorney?

An enduring power of attorney is someone you legally appoint to make financial, legal and/or personal decisions on your behalf if you are ever unable to do so.

Appointing a trusted person through an enduring power of attorney ensures your affairs are looked after according to your preferences.

If you lose mental capacity without an enduring power of attorney, no one may have legal authority to manage your affairs. Your family may then need to apply for court-appointed guardianship or administration, which can be costly and time-consuming.

To appoint an enduring power of attorney, you need to complete an ‘enduring power of attorney appointment form.’

It is important to appreciate that powers of attorney are complex legal documents, the Office of the Public Advocate recommends that you seek legal advice to ensure your power of attorney accurately reflects your wishes.

Next Steps

Need help getting started? Contact us and we can guide you through the process and make sure everything is tailored to your personal circumstances.

 Disclaimer: The content of this blog is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter and should not be relied upon as legal advice.

References

https://www.willed.com.au/guides/why-should-you-have-an-enduring-power-of-attorney-in-australia

https://www.publicadvocate.vic.gov.au/your-rights/enduring-power-of-attorney/making-a-power-of-attorney

https://www.publicadvocate.vic.gov.au/your-rights/your-healthcare/appointing-a-medical-treatment-decision-maker

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