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  • Guardianship

Guardianship

  • When guardianship or administration is needed
  • Supportive guardians and supportive administrators
  • Making an application to VCAT
  • When the Public Advocate is appointed as guardian
  • Role and responsibilities of guardians and administrators
  • Guardianship and administration from 1 March 2020
  • Guardianship and administration orders made before 1 March 2020
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Guardianship

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Painting by artist Julie White titled Lifesavers

Guardianship and administration

It is a human right, enjoyed by all adults, that we make our own decisions. Some people with disability need support to do this.

From 1 March 2020, one way a person can be supported is by the appointment of a supportive guardian or supportive administrator.

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) makes these appointments under the Guardianship and Administration Act 2019.

Sometimes, even with support, a person is not able to make decision(s) about a financial or personal matter.

If there is no alternative to protect and promote the human rights of an adult with disability, VCAT may appoint a guardian and/or an administrator.

The guardian or administrator is appointed with legal authority to make decisions for the person about specific personal or financial matter(s).

They make decisions that reflect the person’s will and preferences unless it would cause serious harm to the person.

VCAT application forms

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has online application forms for guardianship and administration.

Go to VCAT's application forms

Guardianship and least restrictive practice

This is a valuable resource for health service professionals and others involved in discharge planning for older people in hospital who have complex needs.

Read more on the health.vic website

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Level 1, 204 Lygon Street
Carlton, Victoria 3053
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The Office of the Public Advocate is located on the land of the Traditional Owners, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations. We acknowledge their history, culture and Elders both past and present.