The WA Government has confirmed it will extend existing Public Trustee fee relief for a further 12 months to 30 June 2027 as part of the 2026-27 State Budget.
The Government has also approved a revised Public Trustee fee model, to commence from 1 July 2027, following an independent review of fees and operating costs.
It says the revised model is simpler and will improve fairness and transparency, with fees aligned to the cost of delivering individual services which provides stronger protections for at-risk people.
Under the revised model, fees for clients – particularly those with lower‑value trusts or limited financial capacity – will be significantly reduced or fully rebated. Clients with substantial assets or trusts will pay fees that are cost‑reflective and commensurate with the scale and complexity of the services they receive.
Under the revised arrangements for people represented by the Public Trustee and trust clients:
- clients with less than $5,000 in liquid assets will continue to pay no fees;
- fees for eligible clients will be capped at 5 per cent of total assets; and
- the minimum monthly fee previously charged to some clients remains abolished.
“The Public Trustee plays a key role supporting Western Australians who are unable to manage their own financial and legal matters,” said Attorney General, Tony Buti.
“This Budget continues fee relief for clients while locking in a long-term fee model that establishes simpler, transparent fees for Represented Persons and trust clients.
“Our approach strikes the right balance between supporting at-risk people and ensuring the Public Trustee remains sustainable into the future.
“I’d like to thank the members of the Public Trustee Advisory Board, who are senior government officers and independent members, for providing their strategic and robust oversight of the development of the revised fee model.”
The Government says information about fee changes will be communicated by the Public Trustee well ahead of implementation.
To support improved service delivery, the Budget also includes funding for an additional 43 permanent staff at the Public Trustee to meet growing demand.
Public Trustee, Brian Roche welcomed the outcome of the most significant, independent review ever carried out of the Public Trustee’s fees and funding model and operating costs.
“The review has delivered a new funding model which is based on a contemporary, evidence-based assessment of the cost of delivering individual services,” he said.
“The changes to the Public Trustee’s fee structure from 1 July 2027 will greatly benefit the most at risk in our community and improve transparency and equity for Public Trustee clients.”
