Many Fijians still do not understand the importance of making a will, and this lack of awareness is contributing to family disputes, delays in estate settlements and financial hardship for vulnerable relatives.
This was highlighted by Opposition MP Premila Kumar during Parliament’s debate on the Review Report on the 2020 Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Pte Limited Annual Report.
Kumar says making a will is still widely misunderstood in Fiji, with many people believing it is only for the wealthy, something to be done later in life, or a service only available through private legal practitioners.
She says as a result, many Fijians either delay making wills or transfer assets informally to children and relatives without understanding the long-term consequences, which can later lead to neglect, abuse and disputes among families.
Kumar says there is an urgent need for stronger public education and outreach on the Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Limited, which she described as an important part of Fiji’s social protection system.
She says the institution should not be viewed only as an administrative office, but as a key part of the country’s safety net, alongside organisations such as the Fiji National Provident Fund.
Opposition MP Viam Pillay highlighted the operational importance of the institution, saying it manages estate values of around $51 million and serves more than 11,000 beneficiaries without receiving government grants.
Pillay says despite its importance, families continue to face delays in property transfers and estate settlements, particularly during times of grief, where administrative delays can worsen emotional and financial stress.
INSERT: Pillay on property transfers 25th May
He also raised concerns about the financial sustainability of the organisation following the loss of key revenue streams linked to changes in trust-related business.
Pillay says this report is a loud warning and that the corporation is facing a massive financial crisis because its core revenue from the Fiji National Provident Fund trust is completely depleted.
He stresses that we cannot fix a 20-year-old problem with slow discussions or political arguments.
Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, Siromi Turaga acknowledged the concerns raised but stated that the Fiji Public Trustee Corporation continues to play a vital role in protecting beneficiaries, vulnerable persons and families across Fiji.
Turaga says the Corporation administered 4,547 wills and 1,897 deceased estates during the review period.
INSERT: Turaga on Corporation's work 25th May
He says the Corporation's responsibilities continue to expand as public awareness and demand for trustee and estate services increase throughout the country.
He says ongoing coordination between the Ministry of Justice, the Registrar of Titles and the Registrar-General’s Office is aimed at improving turnaround times for probate matters and estate transfers.
