Child Care Subsidy support for Australian families.

The Child Care Subsidy helps reduce out-of-pocket child care costs for eligible families and is paid directly to approved providers.

Brighter Beginnings learning space for Child Care Subsidy information

2025-26 rates

Rates depend on your family circumstances.

CCS is calculated using family income, service type, provider fees, hourly caps and the number of children in care.

Understanding the 3 Day Guarantee.

From 5 January 2026, CCS-eligible families can access 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, with up to 100 hours for eligible participation or exemptions.

Estimate CCS Start Enrolment

An educator working alongside a child at Fairfield

About CCS

What families ask about the subsidy

Four questions about Child Care Subsidy. Services Australia decides your entitlement, not us.

A prepared corner of a room at Brighter Beginnings Edensor Park

What decides your subsidy

The parts of CCS that change what you actually pay.

What changed in 2026

The 3 Day Guarantee gives CCS-eligible families 72 hours per fortnight regardless of work or study activity.

Up to 100 hours

Families with higher recognised participation, approved exemptions, ACCS or First Nations children may be eligible for up to 100 subsidised hours.

Income thresholds

For 2025-26, families up to around $85,279 may receive 90%, with the rate reducing as income increases.

Gap fees

Most families still pay the gap between the provider fee and the subsidy amount paid by Services Australia.

Find Your Nearest Brighter Beginnings

With centres across Western Sydney, a Brighter Beginnings may be closer than you think. Explore our locations and find the centre that feels right for your family.

Find My Nearest Centre

Important CCS details

Use this information as a guide only. Services Australia determines actual eligibility and subsidy entitlement.

How CCS is calculated
Your subsidy depends on combined family income, care type, hourly fee, government hourly caps and the number of children in care.
2025-26 subsidy rates
Families up to around $85,279 may receive 90%. Above that, the subsidy gradually reduces and phases out around $535,279.
Expected 2026-27 changes
The government indexes CCS thresholds and hourly caps annually, with higher thresholds and continued 3 Day Guarantee access expected from July 2026.
Services Australia
CCS is claimed through Services Australia and myGov. Families must meet eligibility requirements and places are subject to availability.
Services Australia
3 Day Guarantee
The Department of Education explains how the 3 Day Guarantee works for families and approved providers.
Official 3 Day Guarantee
Calculator disclaimer
Any calculator estimate is a guide only and does not guarantee subsidy entitlement. Actual amounts are determined by Services Australia.

Staying connected

Part of Their Day, Even When You’re Not There

Through OWNA, families can stay connected with their child’s day at Brighter Beginnings. Educators share daily updates, important information and messages, helping you stay informed while your child is in our care.

You’ll also find centre information and seasonal menus in one convenient place, so you know what’s happening and what your child has been offered throughout the day. OWNA is also used to securely complete enrolment when your family is ready.