As from 12 March 2018 new Medical Treatment Decision Maker Forms replace Enduring Powers of Attorney (Medical Treatment) and new legally binding Advance Care Directives can be made.

Pursuant to the Medical Treatment Planning and Decisions Act 2016 (“the Act”) you can appoint a medical decision maker to make decisions as to your medical treatment when you do not have decision making capacity. You can also appoint a support person to assist you to make medical treatment decisions by collecting, interpreting information for you and assisting you communicate your decision.

Medical powers of attorney made before 12 March 2018 remain valid.

By creating a legally binding Advance Care Directive pursuant to the Act you can make:

• instructional directives providing specific details about treatment you consent to or refuse.
• values directives describing your views and values as to medical treatment.

Advance Care Plans made before 12 March 2018 also remain valid, but are not legally binding.

For more information please contact our friendly and professional team at Peter Speakman & Co on 9822 8611