INPLACE CARE -
December 21, 2020

Powers of Attorney – covering all contingencies

At different times of life – potentially due to illness, an accident, disability or absence – having an Enduring Power of Attorney appointed can be an important step in the management of your affairs & key decisions.

We all value our ability to make decisions & choices about our lifestyle, finances, where we live, medical treatment and much more. Although many of us do not consider it, if you were unable to make decisions about these matters, would your family/friends know your preferences & values that would guide your decision making? Who would you want to speak on your behalf?

Whilst the landscape is slightly different in each state or territory in Australia, broadly speaking there is an Enduring Power of Attorney for financial & legal matters and a separate one for Medical Treatment.

As per the Victorian Public Advocate website:

“You should only make an enduring power of attorney if there is someone you trust, who understands what is important to you, and is willing and able to act on your wishes as far as it is possible to do so … You can make an enduring power of attorney if you are aged 18 years or older and have decision-making capacity to do so. You can only make an enduring power of attorney for yourself, you cannot make one on behalf of someone else”.

A good starting for reading more about this important topic is Powers of Attorney.

InPlace Care is a company that is committed to supporting all people in all stages of their life. Whether it is for routine care services, being a friend in troubled times or supporting you with pathways to find the right advice you need, we are happy to help you on your journey.