Hospitalisation

When an Emergency Maintenance Allowance client is admitted to hospital, their benefit can continue at the existing rate for the first 13 weeks.

The rate of payment will need to be reduced to the hospital rate after the client has been in hospital for more than 13 weeks (not after receiving a benefit for 13 weeks).

MSD will need to confirm who is caring for the client's child, and the length of time the client is likely to be in hospital.

If requested, MSD may pay part of the benefit to the child's caregiver to cover the cost of alternative care or accommodation.

When the child is not going to remain in the care of the client, MSD should confirm what the continuing care arrangements are for the child. If the child is no longer a dependent child the client's benefit will stop. MSD will need to confirm if the client qualifies for another benefit.

If there are no other continuing financial costs, and it is likely that the client will remain in hospital long term, other means of income support for the children may be considered.

For example, the new caregiver may meet the qualifications for Orphans Benefit or Unsupported Childs Benefit, or the child may be able to be included as a dependent child if the new caregiver is getting a main benefit.

The hospital rate allows for the cost of personal items, which patients are expected to provide for themselves.

As at 1 April 2026 the net weekly hospital rate is $58.34.

MSD may pay an amount above the hospital rate where there are financial circumstances to warrant paying a higher rate.

MSD cannot pay an amount less than the hospital rate.

Generally, clients getting Emergency Maintenance Allowance must respond to the Mandatory Review before their review date, or their payments will suspend.

However, when a client is in hospital (for 13 weeks or less) and needs more time to respond to the review they may be able to get an extension. If a client is unable to respond to the Mandatory Review, they may be exempt from needing to do it.

The client must contact MSD before their review date to discuss their situation if they need an extension or exemption.

Note clients who are in hospital for more than 13 weeks do not have a Mandatory Review.