Free Will, online Will or lawyer: which is right for you?
Last updated 25 October 2026
Short answer: For most people with a "standard" Estate, a State-specific online Will is a quick, cost-effective option. If your Estate is complex, a solicitor is the better choice. A free Will can work, but check what it is tailored to and what it asks of you in return.
| Free Will or template | Online Will (RapidWills) | Solicitor-prepared Will | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | $0 | $79 fixed, including GST | Usually several hundred dollars or more |
| Tailored to your State or territory | Templates often are not | Yes | Yes |
| Reviewed by Australian lawyers | Varies: check before you start | Yes: solicitor-reviewed document base | Yes |
| Guided questions | Varies | 15 plain-language steps | Face-to-face advice |
| Testamentary trust | Rarely included | Included at no extra cost | Usually an added cost |
| Personal legal advice | No | No | Yes |
| Time to complete | Varies | About 15 to 20 minutes | Usually days or weeks |
What to check before using a free Will
- Is it tailored to where you live? A generic template isn't tailored to your State or territory's specific requirements and won't prompt you to consider important situations.
- Has it been reviewed against Australian law? Some free templates found online are written for other countries, or for only one State. Check whether the document has been reviewed by Australian lawyers for the State or territory where you live.
- How is it funded? Some free Wills are funded by charities or funeral businesses. That is not a problem in itself, but you should not feel pressured to leave a gift you didn't intend.
When you should see a lawyer
An experienced Wills and Estates lawyer is always a good idea, and is strongly recommended if you have:
- significant business interests or assets held in a company or family trust
- complex trust arrangements or a self managed superannuation fund
- special needs dependants
- expansive gifting plans or substantial philanthropic gifts
- a family member likely to contest your Will.
Where RapidWills fits
RapidWills is prepared in Australia, for Australians. The base documents behind every Will have been extensively reviewed by experienced Australian lawyers, and each Will is tailored to the State or territory where you live.
RapidWills suits the "standard" situation most people find themselves in: a family home, some superannuation, one or two vehicles, perhaps a holiday house. You get one fixed price, no charity pressure and no funeral upsell.
The information in this guide is general information only and does not take into account your personal circumstances. It is not, and is not intended to be, legal or financial advice. If your situation is complex, we recommend speaking with a solicitor.
Ready to make your Will?
Most people finish in 15 to 20 minutes. One fixed price, no upsells.