Making a Will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and assets. Despite this, many Australians put it off because they think it’s complicated or expensive. The truth is, a valid Will doesn’t just protect your wishes, it can also save your loved ones time, stress and thousands of dollars in legal fees down the track.

So, how much does a Will cost in Australia? And, more specifically, how much does a Will and testament cost compared to the risks of not having one at all? This guide breaks down the options, costs and factors you should consider when making a Will.

What impacts the cost of a Will?

The cost of making a Will can vary quite a bit depending on your situation and how you go about it. Some of the biggest factors are how complex your estate is, whether you use a DIY kit, an online platform or go through a lawyer, and whether you need any extra estate planning, like setting up trusts or adding powers of attorney.

As a rough guide for 2025, a DIY Will kit or online Will might cost anywhere between $30 and $200. If you’d rather have a professional handle it, the latest Bark data indicates a simple lawyer-drafted Will costs on average $440. For more complex estates, say you own a business, have multiple properties or a blended family, the cost can go up to $1,000 to $3,500 or more.

It’s worth keeping in mind that while a DIY option can seem like the cheapest route, a poorly written Will can cause big problems later. Simple mistakes or unclear wording could lead to confusion, disputes, or even court cases that end up costing your family far more in the long run.

Cost breakdown: Options for making a Will

1. DIY Will kits and online Wills

DIY Will kits and online Wills are the cheapest and simplest way to get your affairs in order, usually costing between $30 and $200. Online Wills and Will writing kits give you a basic, affordable way to put something in place quickly. However, they’re best suited for really straightforward situations. For example, if you’re single, have no dependents and only a few assets like a car, a savings account or some personal items.

The main issue, however, is that these kits carry significant risk if you don't follow the legal steps precisely. If your Will isn't signed and witnessed exactly according to the rules, it could be deemed invalid.

Beyond that, DIY options often fail to account for more complicated circumstances. This includes things like blended families or owning property in multiple states, such as in both Queensland and New South Wales, which can involve different legal considerations.

2. Solicitor or lawyer-drafted Wills

Getting your Will drafted by a solicitor or lawyer is a smart move if your situation is even slightly complex. Prices typically range from around $300 to $600 for a simple Will. However, more complicated estates, like those involving businesses, trusts or blended families, can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,500 or more.

This option is ideal for families, property owners, business owners or anyone with significant assets who wants peace of mind knowing everything is done properly. A lawyer can tailor your Will to your specific circumstances, make sure it’s legally valid and factor in things like tax implications and potential disputes.

For example, a couple with a family home, superannuation and two kids might pay around $600 for mirrored Wills prepared by a lawyer. In return, they’ll have a clear, legally sound document that properly sets out guardianship arrangements and how their estate should be shared, saving their loved ones a lot of stress later on.  

3. Complex estate planning Wills

If your situation involves significant wealth, a blended family or complex assets like businesses, trusts or overseas property, you’ll likely need a more advanced estate plan rather than a standard Will. These complex estate planning Wills can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on how detailed and customised your arrangements need to be.

This type of Will often includes features like testamentary trusts, tailored tax planning and special provisions for vulnerable beneficiaries such as children with disabilities or dependents who may need ongoing financial support. While the upfront cost is higher, it’s an investment that can help minimise tax, protect inheritances and reduce the risk of family disputes down the line.

For instance, a business owner with multiple properties and a blended family might spend over $4,000 on a comprehensive estate plan that includes a Will and testamentary trust. This approach helps ensure that assets are distributed fairly and securely, protecting children from both marriages and keeping the estate’s value intact for the long term.

Additional costs to consider when making a Will

When you’re setting a budget for your Will, it’s worth remembering that there are a few related estate planning services you might want to include as well. For example, an Enduring Power of Attorney, which allows someone you trust to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to, usually costs between $150 and $600. You might also consider an Enduring Guardianship, which covers health and lifestyle decisions, typically ranging from $150 to $400.

If your situation is more complex, adding testamentary trusts to your Will can provide long-term protection for your assets and beneficiaries. These are often part of a more detailed estate plan and can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more.

While these extras do increase the upfront cost, they offer valuable peace of mind. They make sure your wishes are respected, your loved ones are protected and your affairs are handled exactly the way you want, no matter what happens.

How much does a Will and testament cost compared to not having one?

Not having a valid Will can end up costing your family far more, both financially and emotionally, than the small Will and testament cost of setting one up. When someone passes away without a Will, the process of sorting out their estate becomes much more complicated. Court applications for intestacy (the legal process for distributing assets when there’s no Will) can quickly run into thousands of dollars in legal fees. On top of that, family disputes are sadly common in these situations, and litigation over estates can easily exceed $50,000. It’s not just about the money either; without a clear Will, the process of distributing assets can take years to finalise, leaving loved ones in limbo.

For example, if someone dies without a Will, their estranged spouse might inherit everything under intestacy laws, leaving children from a previous relationship with nothing. Challenging that outcome can be incredibly stressful and often drains what’s left of the estate in legal costs.

In short, a properly drafted Will isn’t just a legal document, it’s peace of mind for you and protection for the people you care about.

Planning ahead saves money and stress

So, how much does a Will cost? In Australia, the answer depends on your needs. A simple DIY Will may cost under $200, while a tailored estate plan could cost several thousand dollars.

But when weighed against the risks of intestacy and family disputes, the cost of making a valid Will is a small price to pay for peace of mind.

If you’re considering your options, Bark can connect you with experienced Wills and Estate Planning lawyers who provide clear, transparent pricing and ensure your wishes are legally protected.