Becoming a guardian
Becoming a guardian
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Guardianship and administration enable substitute decision-makers to be legally appointed to make decisions in the best interests of an adult who is not capable of making reasoned decisions for themselves.
A guardian has legal authority to make personal and lifestyle decisions on behalf of a person with a decision-making disability. These decisions often relate to work, living arrangements or medical treatment.
An enduring power of attorney is a legal document in which one person gives another the legal authority to make financial and legal decisions on their behalf. An enduring power of attorney can only be made by a person while they have the capacity to make decisions.
Family or friends are usually appointed as guardians or administrators. However, if no one else is available or suitable, then Public Advocate may be appointed guardian or the Public Trustee administrator.
An administrator is appointed by the State Administrative Tribunal to make financial or legal decisions in the best interests of a person who is not capable of making decisions for themselves.
Applications can be made to the State Administrative Tribunal under the Guardianship and Administrative Act 1990.
