Frequently asked questions

Why do I need a Will?

A Will ensures you're in control of your assets, and outlines how they'll be distributed to the people and causes you care about. Your loved ones won't need to make difficult decisions about the distribution of your estate.

Do I need professional advice to make a Will?

By using the services of a practising solicitor or trust company, you'll ensure your Will is legally correct and your wishes will be followed accurately.

I’d like to leave a gift in my Will. What do I need to do?

To ensure the correct wording for a bequest to Cancer Council Victoria in your Will, download wording for your Will, and take it with you when you visit your solicitor. All bequests to Cancer Council Victoria help us fund vital cancer control projects that otherwise might not be possible.

Should I leave a percentage or a set amount?

All bequests, whether large or small, are greatly appreciated. If you leave a percentage of your estate, this will ensure that the value of your gift will not be affected by inflation. If you choose to leave a set amount of your estate, you can specify the exact sum you wish to donate to us.

I’d like my bequest to be used for specific research. Can I do this?

Yes, you can choose to contribute to the cancer research area that interests you.

We recommend that you discuss your bequest idea with us to ensure we can help achieve your wish. Please contact the Bequests and Estates team on 03 9635 5604 to discuss your bequest in confidence.

Please note we prefer bequests for 'general purposes', as this allows us the flexibility to direct the funds where they're most needed, and priorities for research can change over time.

If I make a bequest, do I need to tell you?

If you've already directed a bequest to us or are considering it, please let us know. It helps us with planning and forecasting, and provides us with the chance to thank you. You'll also be invited to join our Bequestors Club.

Form to let us know your intention to leave a bequest

I've already included the Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria in my Will: are you the same group?

Yes. The Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria was set up as a charitable body in 1936. In 2002, we changed our business name to Cancer Council Victoria. If you'd like to leave us a bequest, you'll need to leave it to our registered name of Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria.

I’m an Executor of a Will that includes a bequest to the Cancer Council. What should I do?

Please send the cheque, photocopy of the Will and a covering letter to:

The Estates Officer
Cancer Council Victoria
1 Rathdowne St, Carlton, Vic 3053

If you'd like to speak to our Estates Officer please phone 03 9635 5661 during business hours.

What happens if I don't make a Will: does it all go to the Government?

About 42% of all Australian adults don't have a Will*. This means decisions about their estate will be made according to the law and some or all of the people or causes they care about may not be included in the distribution of their assets.

When you have an up-to-date Will, you're in control of your affairs and there will be no uncertainty about what will happen to your estate.

* Source: Giving Australia Report 2005

If you have a question about Will-making that's not covered above, phone Glenis Capps on 03 9635 5604 during business hours.