When a patient is admitted to hospital, they fill out an admission form nominating a next of kin.

In Qld, what are the rights and obligations of the next of kin when the patient has already appointed another person as enduring power of attorney and executor of the will?

Why do hospitals want to know a next of kin?

What does the next of kin actually do that other family members aren't able to do?

Is there a legal definition of next of kin in Qld or Australia?