Estate planning is about more than just preparing a valid Will.  It's about making sure your family is provided for and that your assets go where you want them to after you die.

A good estate plan will:

• ensure the ownership and control of your assets passes to your intended beneficiaries in the right proportions;
• minimise tax payable on the income and capital gains earned on those assets; and
• protect assets if a beneficiary is involved in any legal difficulties (for example, bankruptcy or divorce).

Essentially, a good estate plan can provide you with peace of mind and help avoid potential complications for your beneficiaries.

You should review your estate planning needs on a regular basis and particularly when an important event occurs such as:

• getting married;
• getting divorced;
• the birth of a child;
• the death of a relative you have provided for;
• starting work;
• changing jobs; and
• retiring.