Longer grants when there is low availability of emergency housing
An Emergency Housing Grant may be paid for up to 14 nights when there is low availability of emergency housing in the region.
The region generally refers to the city or town in which the client is needing emergency housing. This can also include neighbouring towns and cities when appropriate.
If there is a period of low availability of emergency housing, MSD may pay the Emergency Housing Grant for up to 14 nights. This is regardless of whether it is the client's first or subsequent grant for the emergency housing event.
Regions will advise of periods of low availability
MSD regional offices will advise their staff when and where there is a period of low availability of emergency housing.
Low availability means:
- there are regional issues in the supply of emergency accommodation and
- room/unit bookings are limited and need to be secured for longer periods
Reasons for low availability of emergency accommodation generally include:
- longer public holiday periods (e.g. Christmas and Easter)
- big, one-off special events in the region (e.g. sporting, cultural, or international conferences)
- natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes
Shortage of public or private housing not a reason for longer grants
Low availability of emergency housing does not include a shortage of public or private housing in the region. MSD cannot approve a longer grant for this reason.
For more information see:
Legislation
- Period and amount of grant clause 17 Emergency Housing Grants Programme
