Children
Please note: If you have more than one child aged 5 or under in child care, eligible higher rate children will receive a higher subsidy, up to a maximum 95%
Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
Use our calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket childcare costs after your Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is applied, including the 3-Day Guarantee.
To get started, you'll need your CCS percentage from MyGov and your centre's daily fee. Not sure of your fee? Call our Family Support Team and we'll help.
At a Glance
- Who can get it: Most Australian families using approved early learning services
- What it covers: A percentage of childcare fees paid directly to your centre
- 3 Day Guarantee: As of January 2026, all CCS-eligible families receive at least three subsidised days per week
- Need help? Our Family Support Team can guide you through your CCS setup
Ready to find a centre?
Our Family Support Team can confirm fees at your nearest centre, walk you through your CCS, and help you take the next step.
How the Child Care Subsidy Works
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is financial support from the Australian Government that reduces your out-of-pocket childcare costs. It's paid directly to your centre and automatically applied to your fees, so you only pay the difference.
Family Income
Higher subsidies for lower and middle-income families.
Activity Test
Based on your recognised activity - work, study, training or volunteering.
Service Type
Applies to approved long day care services like our centres across Australia.
Hourly Rate Cap
The Government sets a maximum hourly amount it will subsidise - your gap fee covers anything above this cap.
For full details and income thresholds, visit Services Australia.
The 3 Day Guarantee
As of January 2026, the Australian Government's 3 Day Guarantee means more families across Australia can access consistent, subsidised early learning, regardless of their activity level.
Here's what it means for your family:
- All CCS-eligible families now receive at least 72 hours (around 3 days) of subsidised care per fortnight
- First Nations families are eligible for up to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight
- Families completing 48+ hours of recognised activity per fortnight continue to receive up to 100 hours
- Families with limited or no recognised activity still receive three subsidised days per week - no activity test required for the first 3 days
- Existing income limits still apply
How to Apply for the Child Care Subsidy
You can apply online through MyGov.
Log in to MyGov and link your Centrelink account, or create an account if you don't have one.
Submit your CCS claim, including your income and activity details.
Confirm your enrolment details when your centre sends them through.
Check your first statement to see your CCS applied and your gap fee.
If your income or activity level changes, update your details with Services Australia to keep your CCS accurate and avoid a bill at tax time.
Maximising Your CCS Benefits
You may be eligible for a higher subsidy if any of the following apply:
- You have more than one child aged 5 or under in care - your younger children may receive up to 30% more CCS, up to a maximum of 95%
- Your family earns under $80,000 per year - you may be eligible for up to 90% off fees
- You or your partner work or study 48+ hours per fortnight - eligible for up to 100 subsidised hours
- You qualify under the 3 Day Guarantee
Not sure where you land? Our Family Support Team can help you work it out.
Still Have Questions?
Visit Services Australia for full CCS details and income thresholds, or get in touch with our team - we're here to help families across QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, NT and WA find the right centre and make the most of their CCS.