Guiding principles of guardianship decision making

Part of the Powers of Attorney and guardianship topic

Understand the principles that guide guardianship decision making in Queensland.

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In short

Queensland’s guardianship system follows key principles. They protect the rights, dignity and choices of adults who may not be able to make decisions.

Anyone making a decision for an adult must follow these principles. This includes formal and informal decision-makers.

What you should know

Guardianship principles help make sure that decisions are respectful and inclusive. They support the adult’s the best interests and reduce limits on their rights and freedoms.

The principles guide anyone making decisions for an adult who may not have capacity. This includes:

  • attorneys
  • guardians
  • administrators
  • statutory health attorneys
  • informal decision-makers
  • the Supreme Court
  • the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

General decision-making principles

Presume capacity
Every adult has capacity unless proven otherwise. Capacity is specific to the type of decision and the time it is made.

Respect rights and freedoms
Every adult has the same human rights as others. This includes dignity, independence, fairness and equal opportunity.

Support the adult
Help them make their own decisions and live a full life in the community.

Keep supportive relationships
Respect the role of family, friends, and carers who support the adult.

Respect culture and beliefs

Consider their culture, language, values and beliefs, including religion.

Protect privacy
Keep personal and health information private.

Protect liberty and security

Don’t restrict freedom unless the law allows it.

Include the adult in decisions
Involve them as much as possible. Listen to their views, wishes and preferences.

Promote rights and limit restrictions
Protect their rights and choose the least restrictive option.

Health care decision-making principles

Apply the general principles
Use both the general decision-making principles and these health care principles.

Respect rights and freedoms
Every adult should have access to appropriate health care, including prevention. Respect their dignity, independence and choices.

Consider all relevant factors
Think about:

  • advice from the adult’s health care provider
  • their condition and likely outcome
  • other treatments and the risks
  • whether care can wait for a better option
  • the impact of delaying or refusing care
  • how care may affect dignity and independence.

Use substituted judgement
If current wishes are unknown, use past choices. This may include an advance health directive or earlier decisions.

How to make decisions

Follow these steps:

  1. Support the adult to make their own decisions where possible.
  2. Consider their views, wishes and preferences.
  3. If these are not known, consider what they would likely choose.
  4. Make a decision that respects their rights and interests.

Last updated:
29 June 2026