Huts
There are huts scattered all over the Australian Alps. Most were built by early high country graziers, but some have been built as emergency shelters in exposed locations and others purely for use by various outdoor recreation clubs.
The Kosciuszko Huts Association runs a detailed website that provides everything you'd want to know about high country huts at http://www.kosciuskohuts.org.au.
Most huts are available for public use at any time. It is important to note that Australian highcountry huts are not like those in other countries. Most provide very basic shelter, a fireplace, an emergency supply of wood and a pit toilet. They are not maned and there are no supplies of gear, food etc.. Some provide shelter only. Most are not very clean and have an abundance of wildlife that may keep you entertained as you try to sleep. Some criters have been known to chew through packs in the middle of the night to get to food.
Examples of the rough and ready style of many high country huts. These two were built by high country graziers.
It's best not to rely on huts for shelter. They may be difficult to located in poor weather, may be full of other people when you arrive, and there is no guarantee that huts marked on a map still exist (many were destroyed in the 2003 fires). Many people have gotten into trouble trying to push on into bad weather to get to a hut. They are best used for warming and/or shelter in conjunction with your own sleeping arrangements (ie. a tent nearby). In most cases you'll be warmer in your tent than you would be in a hut. They are a good backup option if the shit hits the fan.
You should always replace any wood used and leave the hut clean and tidy. Be sure to close the door properly on your way out. Some hut fireplaces are only to be used in emergency situations.
Cootapatamba Hut is a small emergency shelter south of Mt Kosciuszko. It has two bunk beds and that's about it. The chimney style entrance is the only way to get inside in a big snow year.