Child Care Subsidy (CCS)

We know that choosing child care is a big decision - and understanding the costs can feel overwhelming. That’s where the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) comes in.

This government initiative is designed to make early education more affordable for Australian families. At Affinity Education, we’re here to help you understand how it works, how to apply, and how to make the most of your benefits.

Need help getting started? Our team is happy to support you through the process. Just contact us or speak with your local centre.

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What Is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?

The CCS is a financial support program from the Australian Government that helps reduce the cost of approved child care - including all Affinity Education centres.

The amount you receive depends on your:

  • Combined family income

  • Activity level (work, study, volunteering, etc.)

  • Type of child care and hours used

Your CCS is paid directly to your child care provider, so you only pay the gap fee (what’s left after the subsidy is applied).

Am I Eligible?

You may be eligible if:

  • You or your partner meet Australian residency requirements

  • Your child is enrolled in an approved child care service

  • You meet the activity test (e.g., working, studying, volunteering)

  • You care for your child at least two nights per fortnight

Most families are eligible for some level of subsidy - and many receive significant support.

How to Apply for the Child Care Subsidy

Applying is quick and can be done online:

  1. Log in or create a MyGov account and link it to Centrelink

  2. Submit your application for the Child Care Subsidy

  3. Provide details about your family income, activity level and care needs

  4. Enrol your child in an approved Affinity Education centre

  5. Confirm your enrolment details in MyGov once your centre adds them

Once approved, you’ll receive your CCS percentage and eligible hours - and the subsidy will start reducing your fees straight away.

How Much Can I Get?

The amount depends on your:

  • Family income – families earning under $80,000 may receive up to 90%

  • Activity level – more hours of activity = more hours of subsidised care

  • Hourly rate cap – there’s a maximum rate the subsidy will cover per hour

Here’s a quick look at subsidy levels for the 2024–2025 financial year:

  • If your combined family income is up to $80,000, you may be eligible for up to 90% subsidy.

  • If your income is between $80,001 and $530,000, your subsidy percentage decreases gradually as your income increases.

  • If your income is over $530,000, you are not eligible for the Child Care Subsidy.

How to Maximise Your CCS

Here are a few tips to help you get the most from your subsidy:

  • Keep your income estimate accurate
    Update your MyGov account whenever your income changes to avoid under- or overpayments.

  • Understand the activity test
    Eligible activities include paid work, study, volunteering, or looking for work. More hours = more subsidised care.

  • Use your hours wisely
    Plan your bookings around your approved subsidised hours to minimise gap fees.

  • Talk to your Centre Manager
    They can help you align your schedule and maximise your savings.

Why Choose an Affinity Education Centre?

All Affinity Education centres are approved for the Child Care Subsidy - and we make it easy for families to access it.

We provide:

  • Help with your CCS application and enrolment process

  • Flexible booking options to suit your family’s needs

  • High-quality care and early education at every age and stage

  • Warm, welcoming environments where children feel safe and supported

Whether your child is just starting or transitioning to kindy, our team is here to support your whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions

The CCS is a government subsidy that reduces your child care costs. It’s paid directly to your provider - you just pay the difference.

Yes! Most types of paid and unpaid work count toward the activity test, including part-time work, study, training or volunteering.

Yes. As long as you’re enrolled with an approved provider like Affinity, CCS can apply to both permanent and casual bookings.

Yes - it’s important to keep these up to date in MyGov to ensure you receive the right level of subsidy.

Update your details in MyGov. If you need help, your centre team or our Family Support Team is here to guide you.

Need Help With Your Application?

We’re here to make the process easy.

Let’s work together to make high-quality child care more accessible for your family.

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