Victorian legal guide

How much does a will cost in Victoria?

Q: Is a DIY will valid in Victoria?

It can be, if it is signed and witnessed correctly under Victorian law. But small errors can make a will invalid or open to challenge, which usually costs far more to fix later than a properly drafted will would have.

Q: Should I get a power of attorney at the same time?

Many people do. A will only takes effect after death, while an enduring power of attorney covers decisions while you are alive. Firms often bundle them, and a matched lawyer can advise what you need.

General information for people in Victoria · ORLA Connect

The cost of a will in Victoria ranges from almost nothing to several hundred dollars — and the cheapest option isn’t always the safest. What you pay mostly depends on how you have it made and how complex your situation is. Here’s how it breaks down.

DIY will kits

Will kits from a newsagent or an online template are the cheapest option (often around $30, sometimes free). They can be valid in Victoria, but they’re easy to get wrong — a will that isn’t signed and witnessed correctly can be ruled invalid, and small mistakes are a common cause of expensive disputes after someone dies.

Online and will-writing services

Online will platforms and will-writing services sit in the middle on price and convenience. They’re quicker than seeing a lawyer, but the document usually isn’t tailored to your circumstances or reviewed by a qualified solicitor, so gaps can slip through.

Solicitor-drafted wills

A will drafted by a Victorian solicitor typically costs a fixed fee for a straightforward will, with more for complex estates. You’re paying for advice as well as the document — the lawyer checks that it’s valid, reflects your wishes, and holds up if it’s ever challenged.

What makes a will cost more

Costs rise with complexity: blended families, property or a business, overseas assets, a testamentary trust to protect beneficiaries, or bundling in an enduring power of attorney and medical treatment decision maker. Many people arrange these together, which a firm can quote as a package.

How to compare will costs the easy way

Rather than ring around, you can post your matter once on ORLA Connect and get matched with up to four Victorian wills & estates firms who quote their fixed fees upfront — so you compare on price and fit before choosing anyone. It’s free and private.

Get your will done properly — compare fixed-fee quotes

Post your wills & estates matter once and compare up to four trusted Victorian firms. Private, no obligation.

Post your matter — free

Is a DIY will valid in Victoria?

It can be, if it’s signed and witnessed correctly under Victorian law. But small errors can make a will invalid or open to challenge — which usually costs far more to fix later than a properly drafted will would have.

How much does a simple will cost with a solicitor?

Many Victorian firms offer a fixed fee for a straightforward will, with higher fees for complex estates. Matched firms quote upfront, so you can compare before you choose.

Should I get a power of attorney at the same time?

Many people do — a will only takes effect after death, while an enduring power of attorney covers decisions while you’re alive. Firms often bundle them, and a matched lawyer can advise what you need.

This article is general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, post your matter and a matched Victorian law firm can help.