In my role as an accountant, I often discuss the significance of estate planning and personal financial management with clients. An essential aspect of this planning involves understanding and setting up a Power of Attorney (POA). This legal document plays a critical role in safeguarding your financial interests, especially in unforeseen circumstances. Here’s what you need to know about POAs and why they are crucial.

1. What is a Power of Attorney?

  • Definition: A Power of Attorney is a legal document that allows you (the principal) to appoint another person or organisation (the attorney) to manage your financial affairs. This could include paying bills, managing investments, or making financial decisions on your behalf.
  • Types of POAs: In Australia, the scope of POAs can vary. They can be enduring (continuing to operate if you lose mental capacity) or general (limited to specific circumstances or time frames).

2. Why You Need a Power of Attorney

  • Managing Affairs During Absence or Incapacity
    • Handling Financial Matters: If you are overseas, unwell, or unable to manage your affairs for any reason, a POA ensures that your financial matters are taken care of.
    • Continuity: An enduring POA is particularly important as it remains in effect if you lose mental capacity due to illness or accident.
  • Safeguarding Financial Interests
    • Protection: A POA can protect your financial interests by ensuring that someone you trust is legally empowered to manage your affairs.
    • Preventing Mismanagement: It helps prevent potential financial mismanagement or exploitation in your absence or incapacity.

3. Choosing Your Attorney

  • Trust and Capability: Choose someone you trust implicitly and who has the capability and knowledge to manage your financial affairs effectively. This can be a family member, friend, or a professional like a solicitor or accountant.
  • Discuss Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations, values, and preferences regarding financial decisions.

4. Setting Up a Power of Attorney

  • Legal Advice: It’s advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that the POA is set up correctly and aligns with your specific needs and legal requirements.
  • Clear Terms: The POA should clearly outline the powers granted, any limitations, and when it comes into effect.

5. Review and Update Regularly

  • Changing Circumstances: Regularly review and update your POA to reflect any changes in your circumstances or relationships.
  • Revocation: You can revoke or change your POA as long as you have the mental capacity to do so.

6. Financial Management Considerations

Accountant’s Role: As an accountant, I can work alongside your attorney to provide financial advice, ensure compliance with tax obligations, and assist in the management of your financial affairs.


A Power of Attorney is a critical legal tool in personal financial planning. It ensures that your financial affairs can be managed according to your wishes, even if you are not in a position to do so yourself. By appointing a trusted individual or organisation as your attorney, you can have peace of mind knowing that your financial interests are safeguarded. Remember, setting up a POA is a significant decision that should be undertaken with careful consideration and professional advice.