This guide is for people appointed by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal – Guardianship List as a guardian for someone with a decision-making disability.

It is intended to be an essential reference to help you clarify your authority and responsibilities. The guide will assist you to make decisions and comply with the terms of the guardianship order.

The guide covers Guardianship Standards, acting as a guardian, health care and medical treatment decision-making and acting in the person's best interests. You may find that you feel you are being pressured to take on the role of a case manager or other professional service provider. Keep in mind that your role is to be a decision-maker.

Your decisions ought to make a positive difference to someone's life and we hope you will find your experience as guardian satisfying and rewarding, if sometimes challenging. Please be assured that you have the support of the Office of the Public Advocate as you take on this role and do not hesitate to contact the Private Guardian Support Program Coordinator on 1300 309 337 if you need information or want to talk over any concerns.