Succession and Estate planning

Successfully transitioning a business from one generation to the next is a challenge even at the best of times.

At the worst of times, it can create conflict that affects relationships within the family for years to come.

While it’s difficult to know where to start, RSM’s experienced advisers will work with you to develop a practical roadmap. We’ll then support you and your family in carrying it out, so you can retire knowing your legacy is protected.

At RSM Australia, our succession and estate planning services are designed to help you secure your legacy, protect your assets, and ensure a smooth transition of wealth and business interests.

Whether you’re a business owner preparing for retirement, a family navigating intergenerational wealth transfer, or an individual seeking to protect your estate, our experienced advisers provide tailored guidance that aligns with your goals and values.


Image removed.  

Image removed.

Without a clear succession and estate plan, your business, personal assets, and family relationships can be left vulnerable to conflict, confusion, or unnecessary taxation. Proper planning provides:

  • Certainty around the future ownership and management of your business
  • Protection of your estate from unexpected legal or tax complications
  • Peace of mind knowing your family and beneficiaries are looked after
  • Strategies to minimise estate tax and manage superannuation effectively

With over 100 years of experience supporting Australian businesses and families, RSM’s business advisers deliver practical, empathetic solutions across all areas of estate and succession planning, including:

  • Business succession planning – Transition ownership and leadership in family-run or privately held businesses
  • Family governance – Support for family decision-making, stakeholder alignment, and dispute prevention
  • Estate planning strategies – Including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and superannuation advice
  • Tax-effective structuring – Protect your assets and reduce tax liabilities through smart planning
  • Intergenerational wealth transfer – Navigate the complexities of passing on family wealth or property

We work closely with legal and financial professionals to ensure your plan is fully integrated and aligned with current regulations.

Australian family businesses face unique challenges when it comes to succession. Our advisers offer structured solutions that consider family dynamics, business value, and future leadership needs. We help you answer critical questions, such as:

  • Who will take over the business when I retire?
  • How will the value of the business be shared fairly among family members?
  • How do I protect both my family and the business’s long-term viability?

From trusts and testamentary planning to superannuation and enduring powers of attorney, our estate planning specialists help you take control of your financial future. We ensure your intentions are documented clearly and that your beneficiaries are supported in the most tax-effective and legally sound way possible.

 Book a consultation 

Planning for succession and estate matters can be emotional and complex—but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Speak with a trusted RSM adviser today and take the first step towards safeguarding your legacy.

   WHY RSM?   

100+ years in Australia

30+ offices across Australia

Client choice award winner

The thought of exiting your business often brings up a lot of emotion – regardless of whether you’re passing it to a family member or new owner. It may feel like an enormous weight on your shoulders, which is made worse if there are complex family dynamics at play.

However, succession planning can be hugely rewarding when it’s done right. And the earlier you start, the greater the chance of a successful outcome.

You can rely on us for:

- honest, objective advice
- a practical succession plan
- business restructuring
- minimising any tax consequences, as appropriate
- stakeholder engagement
- support through the transition
- estate planning and the dissemination of assets