As people get older, they might want to make plans for their health care, finances, living arrangements and other important matters. This advance personal planning (APP) can include making a will, documenting medical wishes, choosing a trusted person to help make decisions and having ongoing discussions with family, health and legal professionals. There is increasing recognition that engaging in APP can be beneficial for older adults, their families and wider society. This study aimed to examine participation in APP activities and the factors associated with increased participation. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of people aged over 65 years residing in New South Wales focusing particularly on regional and rural areas. The 216 participants responded to a social media advertisement or information provided through a community organisation. We found that most people had their financial matters in place through the making of a will (90%) and appointing an enduring power of attorney (67%). However, fewer had documented important health questions in an advance care directive (32%) or appointed an enduring guardian (54%). People with increased knowledge, confidence and attitudes towards APP were more like to participate in APP activities. As were those who were older and had private health insurance. Interestingly, increased frailty and the presence of health conditions were not associated with increased APP participation. We conclude that strategies are needed to help older people engage with the full range of APP activities and outline our efforts to increase community knowledge and attitudes towards APP.