Frequently asked questions about leaving a legacy

1) Who should have a Will?

Anyone over 18 years of age should have a valid Will regardless of how little they own. Later may be too late - if you fail to write a Will, you may never get around to it. If you die without a Will, the law specifies who will receive your estate. Your assets may not end up with the people and causes you would have chosen.

2) When should I change or update my Will?

Whenever your circumstances change, for example:

- Change in relationships, such as marriage or divorce

- Death of a spouse, partner or other family member

- Birth of a new family member

- Purchasing a property

- Going on that extended overseas trip or outback adventure

- A change in your financial situation such as retirement

- A change in the health of either you or your partner.

3) Should husband and wife have separate Wills?

Yes, to avoid unwanted legal complications after one person dies or in the case of divorce.

4) Do I need to discuss my decision with my family?

It is extremely important that you discuss your decision to leave a gift to the Wilderness Society with your family and loved ones. This will reduce the risk of family disputes and your Will being contested, ensuring that your wishes are carried out.

5) Why should a solicitor assist me with writing my Will?

It is advisable that you organise your Will through a solicitor as it is likely to be one of the most important documents you ever sign. With such an important document, you don’t want to risk complications or errors which could later translate into further problems with loved ones after you die. A solicitor will also ensure that your wishes are carried out.

6) What is the best type of gift in my Will to leave to the Wilderness Society?

Ultimately the decision is yours, and we are extremely grateful for whatever you consider to be appropriate; however we generally recommend a residual bequest. This means that after your family and loved ones are looked after and your debts are settled, whatever is left, will come to the Wilderness Society to continue championing the protection and restoration of our natural environment.

7) Why should I let the Wilderness Society know if I have left a gift in my Will?

By advising us of your gift to wilderness, we are able to thank you personally and invite you to join our Forever Wild group.

8) Can I leave my property to the Wilderness Society?

We welcome property bequests provided the Wilderness Society is given permission to sell the land and use the funds for campaigning to protect wilderness.

As The Wilderness Society is an environmental advocacy organisation, we are much more effective at protecting wilderness through funded lobbying and campaigning, as opposed to holding and managing land that may not be of particularly high conservation value.

If you would like your land protected, you can place a conservation covenant on it, which will ensure that the flora, fauna, water quality and natural diversity of the land will be protected in perpetuity.

9) How will my gift best help protect Australia’s wild places?

A gift to wilderness in your Will goes into the Forever Wild Trust, unless otherwise specified.

The interest accumulated and the capital is spent annually on WildCountry campaigns across the country at the Trustees’ discretion.

This means the gift in your Will funds campaigns for generations to come, contributing to the overall WildCountry long-term vision.