Kai Relvas is a veterinary nursing student, balancing his studies with his part-time position as a Wills and EPA Officer at Queensland Public Trustee (QPT).
As he continues to navigate his career prospects, he is supported by QPT to explore and pursue his passions. Having a part-time position provides him with a level of security that allows him to throw himself into his studies and other hobbies.
Currently completing a Certificate III in Veterinary Nursing at TAFE, Kai plans to continue down this road by studying a Certificate IV.
“I’ve always wanted to do this… I’ve always loved animals. I’m currently doing a placement at the Animal Welfare League,” Kai says.
He is considering exploring exercise science qualifications and has dabbled as a photographer.
After filling in on reception, Kai demonstrated his professionalism, work ethics and eagerness to learn, and was invited to join the Brisbane Office team in document-making. He was described as respectful, calm and friendly with staff and colleagues, all traits that showed ‘a lot of promise’.
As a Wills and EPA Officer, Kai undertook an intensive 8-week training course. This included but was not limited to role-play assessments and supervised customer appointments. Upon completing this course, he stepped into the role with confidence and expertise, and continues to receive ongoing training and support from senior officers.
A typical day will change depending on the appointments he has booked for the day. He always starts his day by planning, as he knows the appointments and eventual administration tasks will vary.
Appointment times can depend on the type of document being made (Will vs EPA) and whether it is an individual or couples’ appointment.
We sometimes offer off-site visits for people who may struggle to make it into the office for their appointments to ensure that everyone can have the opportunity to make their Wills and EPAs.
“Every appointment is different. Some people are really organised and have thought about what they want, other people tend to ask a lot of questions and think about it as they go. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing as I’m there to guide and help them with their document in accordance with their wishes,” Kai says.
“Not many people like doing their Will. It can be a bit morbid. But it’s nice to be able to put peoples’ minds at ease and help them get their affairs in order.
“I’d suggest for anyone with a Will appointment booked to have a think about where you want your things to go and have the details of your beneficiaries ready.”
As a young man, Kai has gained invaluable skills and knowledge in his role as Wills and EPA Officer.
“Before I started, I didn’t know why it’s important to have a Will and EPA and I didn’t understand things like property, tax and even superannuation. It’s really helped me with my life admin, and I honestly wish I’d been taught some of these things at school,” Kai says.
“My communication skills have improved in the role. I’m talking to a wide variety of people every day with a range of communication styles. I’ve even facilitated interpreting appointments and appointments with grieving customers which can be tough.
“I’d say my confidence has improved a lot as well. I’m young, so I’ve had people comment that I’m too young to be doing their Will. I put their mind at ease because I do know what I’m talking about, and I’m confident I can help.”
For people wanting to work as a Wills and EPA Officer, Kai says it’s important to show your interest and present well as it’s a government job.
“It can be a really feel good job sometimes, knowing you’re doing something meaningful. It’s also great for me to have fixed shifts rather than working casually,” Kai says.
“Queensland Public Trustee is a great place to work. I really enjoy it.”
To apply for a position at the Queensland Public Trustee, you can search on Smart Jobs.