Child Care Subsidy CCS 2026-27: A Parent’s Guide
We understand that applying for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) can feel a little confusing at first. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you understand how CCS works, what you may be eligible for, and how to apply with confidence.
What is the Child Care Subsidy?
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is the Australian Government’s primary way of helping families with the cost of early learning and care.
Introduced in 2018, CCS provides financial assistance to families using approved Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services, including:
- Long Day Care
- Before and After School Care
- Vacation Care
- Family Day Care
The subsidy is paid directly to your child’s service, reducing the fees you pay. Families simply cover the gap between the fee charged and the subsidy received.
The amount of CCS your family receives depends on factors such as your combined family income and recognised participation. The Government’s aim is to make high-quality early learning more accessible and affordable for Australian families.
How Does CCS Work?
Once your family is approved for CCS, the subsidy is paid directly to your child’s early learning centre.
In practice, this means the Government contributes towards your childcare fees and your family pays the remaining gap fee.
Your subsidy percentage is based primarily on your family’s combined annual income. The number of subsidised hours available will depend on your recognised participation and eligibility under the current CCS rules.
For a simple explanation of how CCS works, watch the Services Australia video below:
What’s Changed for CCS in 2026?
From 5 January 2026, the Australian Government introduced the 3 Day Guarantee.
This means:
- All CCS-eligible families can access at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight (approximately three days per week) for each child.
- Families caring for First Nations children can access 100 subsidised hours per fortnight for their First Nations child.
Families who would like access to more than 72 subsidised hours per fortnight will need to report their recognised participation to Services Australia.
Families can receive up to 100 subsidised hours per fortnight per child if they:
- Have more than 48 hours of recognised participation per fortnight, or
- Have an exemption or are experiencing exceptional circumstances.
The 3 Day Guarantee does not change how your CCS percentage is calculated. Most families will still pay a gap fee, and enrolment remains subject to centre availability.
Eligibility for Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
Before you submit an application, you’ll need to ensure you meet CCS eligibility requirements.
For parents or guardians:
- You must meet Australian residency requirements.
- You must be liable for childcare fees under a Complying Written Arrangement with your service provider.
For children:
- They must be 13 years or younger and not attending secondary school (some exceptions may apply in special circumstances).
- They must meet current immunisation requirements.
Higher CCS for Families with More Than One Child in Care
Some families may be eligible for a higher rate of CCS for younger children.
You may qualify if:
- You get, or are eligible for, CCS.
- Your family’s combined income is under $370,727.
- You have more than one CCS-eligible child aged five or younger attending childcare.
CCS Rates for Higher-Rate Children
Learn more about how these calculations work by exploring examples for different family circumstances.
Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS)
Some families may be eligible for extra assistance through the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS).
To receive ACCS, you must first be eligible for CCS.
ACCS provides additional support for families who are:
- Grandparents caring for a grandchild
- Experiencing temporary financial hardship
- Transitioning from income support into work
- Caring for a child who is vulnerable or at risk
For more information, visit the Services Australia website.
Child Care Subsidy Income Test 2026-27
The Australian Government subsidises a percentage of either:
- Your childcare fee, or
- The applicable hourly rate cap
whichever amount is lower.
The subsidy percentage is based on your family’s combined annual income:
- Up to $88,520: receive the maximum CCS rate of 90%.
- $88,520 to $538,520: receive a subsidy rate between 90% and 0%, reducing by 1% for every $5,000 of additional income.
- $538,520 or more: no CCS is payable.
Learn more about how your income affects CCS.
You can also estimate your family’s savings using our Child Care Subsidy Calculator.
How to Apply for CCS
Applying for CCS is easier when you’re prepared.
Step 1: Set Up Your myGov and Centrelink Details
Before applying, you’ll need:
- A myGov account
- Your Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN)
- Your child’s up-to-date immunisation records
If you don’t know your CRN:
- Sign in to myGov.
- Select Link Centrelink.
- Select I don’t have or don’t know my CRN.
- Follow the identity verification steps.
- Have your Medicare card and identification documents ready.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
It helps to have the following ready:
- myGov login details
- CRN (Customer Reference Number)
- TFN (Tax File Number)
- Your child’s birth certificate
- Proof of family income
- Student documentation (if applicable)
- Relevant medical documentation (if applicable)
If Centrelink requires further information, documents can be uploaded through your Centrelink online account or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
For additional guidance, view the Child Care Subsidy online claim guide.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Log in to your myGov account and access Centrelink.
- Select Payments and Claims.
- Select Claims, then Make a Claim.
- Choose Families and select Get Started.
- Complete your application and upload supporting documents.
- Submit your claim.
Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances and whether additional information is required.
Start Your Journey Today
If you’re looking for support with the Child Care Subsidy or searching for trusted early learning for your child, Journey is here to help.
Our mission is to give every child the very best start in life. Through our play-based learning approach, we create engaging experiences that nurture curiosity, confidence and growth.
Each of our centres is led by a dedicated management team and passionate educators who work together to create safe, supportive and inspiring learning environments for children and families.
Whether you’re calculating your CCS, enrolling for the first time, or preparing for your child’s first day, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
