Exceptional circumstances

A client cannot get more than two payments for Accommodation Security Cover Grant or Bond Grants in a 52-week period, unless MSD is satisfied there are exceptional circumstances.

When a client has Accommodation Security Cover Grant paid twice in the last 52 weeks, MSD should consider if there is a need for the assistance and if there are exceptional circumstances.

Exceptional circumstances are where the circumstance:

• sets the client apart from others in a similar situation and
• is beyond the client’s control.

Factors to consider include:

• whether the client has any special or unusual circumstances that separates them from other clients which contributed to their need
• the age and health of the client and any dependents
• whether the client caused or contributed to their need
• whether the client needs to move through no fault of their own
• the client was a victim of a violent crime or family violence and has had a change in their housing circumstances, e.g.:
  • needing to move to a different property following a violent crime or
  • no longer living with their partner after seeking a protection order (including if the client remains in the same property without their partner)
• any other circumstances about the client's situation MSD consider relevant