From www.cbp.com.au: Executors must exercise caution when distributing estate assets, especially within the first six to twelve months after the deceased’s death, to avoid personal liability.

Different states have varying statutory time limits for family provision applications, which executors must respect before making distributions.

Executors should prioritise settling all debts, publishing notices of intent to distribute, and ensure compliance with legal requirements to mitigate risks associated with early distributions.