Electronic signing and witnessing of wills

May 13, 2020

The COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) Bill 2020 passed in April 2020 foreshadowed the electronic signing of estate planning documents such as Wills and Powers of Attorney pursuant to regulations to be finalised. On 12 May 2020, Victoria passed the Regulations allowing for electronic signing of Wills and other estate planning documents.

The Regulations outline that, temporarily during the COVID situation, the following documents can be signed and witnessed electronically:

  • Wills;
  • Powers of Attorney;
  • Deeds;
  • Mortgages; and
  • Statutory Declarations.

Each kind of document will have specific requirements to ensure compliance, which are outlined in the Regulations. Kalus Kenny Intelex support this progression and thank the efforts of the industry leaders who have adapted to the times and have worked to demonstrate that online signing can work.

Please contact Kimi Shah or  Henry Kalus if you require assistance with your estate planning.

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