Northern Territory Government
Public Guardian and Trustee National Wills Week 2026: ‘Life changes, so should your Will’
7 September 2026
Marriage, separation, having children, buying a home or retiring – Territorians are being encouraged to check whether their Will still reflects their circumstances and wishes, as National Wills Week gets underway from 7 to 13 September.
This year’s theme, Life changes, so should your Will, highlights the importance of reviewing a Will after a major life event.
Public Guardian and Public Trustee Beth Walker said many people delayed making or updating their Will, despite the importance of having their wishes clearly recorded.
“Many people intend to make a Will but never quite get around to it, or assume there will always be time later,” Ms Walker said.
“Unfortunately, we see the stress and uncertainty that can arise when someone passes away without a valid Will, or when their circumstances have changed and their Will no longer reflects their wishes.”
Without a valid Will, an estate may be distributed according to law, which may not reflect the person’s wishes, adding complexity and uncertainty for family and loved ones at an already difficult time.
“Life can change quickly, and your Will should change with it. Taking the time to make or review your Will can provide clarity and peace of mind for you and the people you care about,” Ms Walker said.
National Wills Week 2026 coincides with a milestone year, marking 10 years since the establishment of the independent Public Guardian in the Northern Territory. Today, the Public Guardian and Trustee supports Territorians through guardianship, trustee, estate, Will-making and Advance Personal Planning services across urban, regional and remote communities.
Territorians can find out more about National Wills Week, making or updating a Will and the services provided by the Public Guardian and Trustee at pgt.nt.gov.au or by calling 1800 810 979.
