Estate Distribution Calculator Australia

What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Australia?

If you die "intestate" (without a valid will), your estate is distributed according to a fixed legal formula set by your state's intestacy laws - which may not reflect your actual wishes.

General Intestacy Principles

• A surviving spouse typically receives a "statutory legacy" (a fixed initial amount) plus a share of the remainder
• Children typically share the remainder after the spouse's entitlement
• If there's no spouse, children typically share the estate equally
• If there's no spouse or children, the estate passes to parents, then siblings, then more distant relatives

Blended Families and Intestacy

Intestacy rules can create unexpected and unwanted outcomes for blended families - children from previous relationships may receive less than intended, or de facto partners may face complications proving their entitlement.

Why a Will Matters

A valid will lets you choose exactly who receives what, appoint guardians for minor children, and avoid potentially lengthy and costly intestacy disputes.

This is a simplified estimate only. Actual intestacy formulas vary significantly by state and individual circumstances. Consult a wills and estates solicitor.