Child Care Subsidy in Australia.
It’s a government payment that helps families with the cost of approved child care. The Child Care Subsidy is managed by Services Australia (Centrelink), and it’s the main way the Australian Government assists families with child care fees.
Who can get it?
Most families using approved child care (like long day care centres, family day care, outside school hours care, etc.) may be eligible, depending on their income and other factors.
How is it calculated?
The amount you receive depends on:
- Your family income.
- Your activity level (how many hours you and your partner work/study/volunteer, etc.).
- The hourly rate cap for the type of care.
- The type of child care service and the age of your child.
Paid to the centre:
The subsidy is usually paid directly to the child care service, reducing your out-of-pocket fees. You then pay the gap fee.
You must apply:
Families need to apply through myGov linked to Centrelink, and the service needs to be an approved provider.
Child Care Subsidy: Link to eligibility on payments https://www.centrelink.gov.au/apps/clkonline_cof/payment-service-finder/payments-finder
