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Future Planning

Find practical information on a range of future planning topics, from Advance Care Directives to Powers of Attorney.

Last updated: 25 February 2026
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Future planning

Advance care directive

An Advance Care Directive is a written document with instructions for medical treatment you would want to receive if you lose capacity.

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Future planning

Be rights savvy!

If you’re not feeling in control of your life, understanding your rights and how they apply could make all the difference.

Middle aged couple and their dog
Future planning

Future planning

Future planning is about taking steps now to maximise your independence and wellbeing in older age.

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Powers of attorney

Can a decision maker control access?

Rights count in decisions about access and contact.

Senior woman with adult daughter going over paperwork
Family agreements

Family Agreements

Living with your adult child, co-purchasing property, building a granny flat, or loaning money. Learn more about creating a family agreement.

Senior man looking out of a window with a sad look on his face
Future planning

Funeral arrangement disputes

After someone passes away, it’s not uncommon for disputes to break out, especially if the deceased person has not left a will.

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Aged care

How technology can support ageing well

From assistive technology such as walking sticks to digital devices and wearables, technology can enhance our safety and wellness in our later years.

Senior couple in the park
Powers of attorney

Powers of Attorney

Everything you need to know about enduring powers of attorney in your state and territory.

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Guardianships

Guardianships

Find out how guardianships work for older Australians and who can be involved.

An image of future planning documents such as a Will and an Enduring Power of Attorney
Future planning

Storing your future planning documents

You’ve taken the time to make your will, power of attorney and other documents to safeguard your future. Deciding where to store them safely is an important step in the process.

Image of a granny flat with a verandah and bi-fold windows opening onto a kitchen
Housing & accommodation

The rules, risks and benefits of granny flats

Thinking about building or moving into a granny flat? Learn why they’re on the rise, what can go wrong without legal protection, and how to safeguard your independence and rights.

Image of a retirement village facade and front lawn
Future planning

Tips for deciding about retirement village living

Buying into a retirement village is not just a personal decision, but also a financial one. Understanding your options is important.

Image of a person signing legal documents
Powers of attorney

What's the difference between a Will, an Enduring Power of Attorney, an Enduring Guardianship and an Advance Care Directive?

Each of these documents is important and plays a specific role in securing your future and ensuring your wishes are respected.

Im age on an older woman in a white long sleeve t-shirt hold a mug, looking out of a window
Future planning

Wills and how they work

Learn how to make a Will that's right for you. Find out more about what to include, key roles and how to resolve or avoid common issues.

Future Planning News

All More from this section
Moneysmart.gov.au
Financial abuse

Planning for Retirement?

Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Moneysmart, a free service by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) on behalf of the Federal Government, is designed to take the complexity out of planning for your financial future.

07/05/2026
Illustration of older people
Future planning

New national plan outlines 10-year vision to end the abuse and mistreatment of older people

17/03/2026
Photo of a health worker's hand on a man's shoulder
Future planning

Demand for VAD in NSW continues to grow

12/01/2026
Photo of a man and a woman going through paperwork together
Financial abuse

Many super funds are failing retirees as millions prepare to stop work

14/12/2025
Photo of two people sitting on a bench overlooking a beach
Financial abuse

Dud superannuation options could cost retirees up to $205,000, Super Consumers warns

06/12/2025

Future Planning Events

All More from this section
Human Rights National Seminar Series
Future planning

Human Rights National Seminar Series

We’re inviting everyone across Australia to be part of the activities marking our 40th anniversary as Australia’s national human rights institution.

21/4/26 – 31/7/26
Various locations
21
Apr
–
31
Jul

Future Planning Resources

All More from this section
Woman on bench
Future planning

Planning Your Future Series

video
Seniors Rights Victoria
The Gift of Aging: Growing Older with Purpose, Planning, and Positivity by Marcy Cottrell Houle and Elizabeth Eckstrom
Future planning

The Gift of Aging: Growing Older with Purpose, Planning, and Positivity

The difference between Powers of Attorney and Enduring Guardians fact sheet
Future planning

The difference between Powers of Attorney and Enduring Guardians fact sheet

factsheet
Ageing and Disability Commission NSW
Let’s talk about Wills cover
Future planning

Let’s talk about Wills

brochure
The Public Trustee Queensland
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We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Compass is committed to ensuring equitable and inclusive responses to end elder abuse for people with diverse characteristics and life experiences

Compass – Guiding Action on Elder Abuse
Elder Abuse Action Australia
Made for all Australians regardless of nationality, culture or language, Compass is an inclusive website navigating elder abuse.
Compass is an initiative of EAAA and funded by the Attorney-General's Department Ⓒ Copyright EAAA Compass 2026. Made by Grade
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