Establishing an end-of-life plan is an essential step for every Australian as they enter their retirement years. Not only does it ensure your final wishes are honoured once you’ve passed, it also gives your loved ones a clear understanding of how you want to live out your dying days when the time comes, and how you want to be celebrated upon your death.

There’s a lot to consider when putting your plans in motion, including understanding your advanced-care options, your funeral preferences (including whether you’d like to buried or cremated), your will – including your power of attorney and executor, and a whole lot more.

Read on to find all the essential information you need to help you prepare for your final days and ensure your wishes are honoured once you’re gone.

Latest on End-of-life Planning

The latest news, views, explainers and community stories about end-of-life planning.

Research found a coffin can comprise more than 30 per cent of the total cost of a funeral. Source: Getty
Five things you should financially achieve by 70, to ensure a happy retirement. Source: Getty Images.
Passwords don't pass with your passing – they stay alive. If you have kept them in a secret place or, even more securely, in that impregnable cyber space called your head, it could create a problem for others if you lose your life or your mind. Source: Getty
Funerary urn with ashes of dead and flowers at funeral. Image: Getty
Unlike other types of trust, which must come to an end within 80 years, charitable trusts can exist forever. Source: Getty
Sometimes it's just better to be explicit about where you've stored your will. Source: Getty.
Elder abuse is now the most common form of abuse and sadly the perpetrators are most often the victim’s friends and family. Source: Getty
In many cases, the financial benefits of funeral insurance are questionable. Source: Getty
Auckland-based Dying Art creates customised and wildly creative caskets. Source: Facebook/@DyingArt
It’s expected to take about 18 months to implement the new laws in Tasmania. Source: Getty
" Imagine if you could go and visit (say) a tree in a forest where your loved one was actually buried and watch it grow and know they were part of that regrowth," writes Brian. Source: Getty Images
Covid-19 is reshaping the way in which Australians view the funeral industry. Source: Getty.
Mary was there with her sister until the very end. Source: Getty Images
ADF veteran and Legacy volunteer Brian Hollis, centre, has supported Emily and James Wiltshire for the past 15 years – building a friendship that will last a lifetime.

More on End-of-life Planning

Since 1990, average life expectancy at birth has gone from 80 to 85 for Australian women and from 74 to 83 for Australian men. Source: Getty
If your will is challenged, it can not only be stressful and upsetting for all parties involved but could also reduce the value of your estate once legal fees are paid. Source: Getty Images.
Elder abuse takes many forms, extending beyond what is commonly known. Source: Getty
If you’re thinking about writing a Will online, there are just a few requirements you will need to meet to ensure your Will is valid.  Image source: Supplied
Memorialisation options offer us a way to celebrate and cherish the lives of our departed loved ones. Source: Getty Images.
Australia offers two eco-friendly burial options. Source: Getty
Having the aged care conversation with a loved one can be a challenging but necessary step in ensuring their wellbeing as they age. Source: Getty Images.
Planning a funeral is an emotionally challenging task that requires careful consideration and preparation. Source: Getty Images.
When a loved one loses decision-making abilities, it is important to seek professional advice and support. Source: Getty Images.