Local Expert Series With Simon - Ep 5 featuring Simone Hargreaves (part 1)

Welcome to our "Local Expert" video series, where we bring together local professionals to share their insights and expertise.

In episode 5 we spoke with Simone Hargreaves is the Principal Lawyer and Director of The Estate Planning Centre, a boutique legal practice specialising in all aspects of estate planning. Simone and her team work with clients across Australia to ensure their legal, medical and financial wishes are clearly documented and protected, helping families navigate complex decisions with clarity and peace of mind. 

In part one of three videos, Simone explains Enduring Guardianship - a vital document that appoints trusted individuals to make medical and lifestyle decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity to do so yourself. 

• The document is called different names across Australian states due to state-specific legislation. 

• In NSW, it is typically a standalone document (separate from Power of Attorney for financial/legal decisions), while some states combine the two. 

• Without this document, it is unclear who has authority to make critical medical decisions - especially in emergencies. 

Why is Enduring Guardianship Important? 

• Without it, hospitals and third parties may not know who can legally approve treatment, appoint specialists, or make end-of-life decisions. 

• Increasingly, hospitals are requiring this document upon admission — even for procedures like C-sections. 

• It prevents confusion, family stress, and delays during already emotional and difficult situations. 

Key Takeaways 

✅ Plan ahead - complete an enduring guardianship document while you still have capacity. 

✅ It protects your wishes and spares loved ones from distressing decisions. 

✅ Different states = different rules - seek professional guidance to get it right. 

✅ Hospitals are increasingly requiring this - don’t leave it until it’s too late. 

Stay tuned next week, where we’ll explore more key aspects of estate planning with Simone. 

Thanks for watching!

Simon

p.s/ - If you'd like to check out the 2nd part of our interview Simone click here, and for Episode 1 with Retirement Coach Jon Glass click here!

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