emergency housing
short-term accommodation for young people and their immediate family who have an urgent need for accommodation
what is emergency housing?
emergency housing is a temporary solution provided to young people who urgently need accommodation. This assistance is only available when other options, such as staying with family or receiving financial support, cannot resolve the situation
when is emergency housing needed?
emergency housing maybe needed when:
- a young person has no place to stay tonight or within the next 7 days.
- they agree to take responsibility for their housing after 7 days (if they stay longer).
- they pass an income and asset test (unless there are exceptional circumstances).
- they meet residency requirements.
- consideration is given to whether the young person contributed to their housing need.
Important: If a young person’s benefits are suspended, this must be resolved before applying for EH.
For more details, refer to the eligibility criteria for emergency housing
how to assess the need for emergency housing
To determine if emergency housing is needed, gather the following information:
- where the young person is currently living.
- the reason they need emergency housing.
- who needs to be housed with them (e.g., family members).
- any health or safety concerns.
A young person may be considered in immediate need if:
- they cannot stay in their current accommodation.
- they cannot find another place to stay within the next 7 days.
exploring alternative housing options
Before granting emergency housing, other housing options must be considered:
- staying with family or friends.
- financial assistance (e.g., accommodation supplement).
- transitional housing.
responsibilities during emergency housing
Once a young person has stayed in emergency housing for 8 or more nights, they will have specific responsibilities. It is important to guide and support them in meeting these obligations.
A young person must:
- actively seek other housing options.
- engage with support services (e.g., housing brokers, budget advisors).
- pay their emergency housing contribution on time.
If the young person does not meet these responsibilities without a valid reason, consequences could include:
- up to two warnings.
- a 13-week non-entitlement period.
If emergency housing is needed during the 13-week non-entitlement period, assess whether they meet the limited circumstances criteria that might allow for emergency housing.
It’s essential to clearly communicate the young person’s options and support them in understanding their situation.
face-to-face appointments
If a young person needs housing after the 8th night, schedule a face-to-face appointment before they check out. This ensures their ongoing housing needs are addressed and additional support is arranged if necessary.
All emergency housing requests must be made in person with a coach.
security deposit
A security deposit may be required by the accommodation provider. This deposit typically covers up to 7 nights of accommodation and is used to cover any potential damages during the stay. If the young person leaves without checking out, the deposit may still be applied.
what you need to know while in emergency housing
- what to expect from MSD and the accommodation provider.
- their rights and responsibilities.
- the expectations of the service.
- what to do if they have concerns.
- steps to take when they leave.
You can download the document emergency housing - what you need to know here.
the resolution framework
The Resolution Framework outlines the decision-making process for emergency housing. It helps assess whether the grant should be approved or declined. The framework also guides interventions to help young people meet their housing obligations and explains the escalation process.
how long can emergency housing be granted for?
Emergency Housing can last for varying periods depending on the situation:
- up to 7 nights: For the first period of emergency housing.
- up to 14 nights: If there is a shortage of available accommodation in the region (e.g., during public holidays).
- up to 21 nights: For those who meet the full criteria after the first period.
emergency housing supplier standards
Accommodation providers must meet specific standards to ensure quality service. Providers who meet these standards are preferred. You will contact your regional housing team for preferred local providers.
how to apply for emergency housing
From the young person's ART file, select TASKS.
Task category: emergency housing.
Task type: emergency housing
Select continue
Complete full template and attach any supporting documentation.
For detailed guidance on applying for emergency housing, refer to the following resources: