Survivorship Applications 

Survivorship applications are an important legal process in Australia, particularly following the death of a joint asset holder. This guide provides an overview of what survivorship applications are, why they are needed, and the steps involved in making one. 

A survivorship application is a formal request to update the ownership of jointly held assets—such as real estate, bank accounts, or shares—after one of the joint owners passes away. The surviving joint owner(s) can apply to have their ownership updated so that the deceased’s name is removed from the records, reflecting sole or remaining joint ownership. 

1. To legally recognise the surviving owner(s) as the sole holder(s) of the asset. 

2. To enable the surviving owner(s) to sell, transfer, or manage the asset without complications. 

3. To ensure compliance with legal requirements and avoid issues with asset management or estate administration. 

4. Real Estate: Properties owned jointly, typically as joint tenants, require a survivorship application to transfer full ownership to the survivor(s). 

5. Bank Accounts: Joint bank accounts may need to be updated to reflect the change in ownership. 

6. Shares and Investments: Jointly held shares or investments often require similar updates. 

Survivorship applications are a crucial step in ensuring that ownership records accurately reflect changes following the death of a joint owner. By understanding the process and requirements, surviving owners can manage assets smoothly and comply with legal obligations. If in doubt, consult with an Australian legal professional for guidance tailored to your situation.