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 Calculator
Estimate Your Childcare Fees
Use our calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket childcare costs after you Child Care Subsidy 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 on 1800 244 532 and we'll help.
Ready to Enrol?
Our Family Support Team can confirm your centre's fees, walk you through your CCS, and help you take the next step.
How the Child Care Subsidy Works
Your CCS percentage is based on your family's combined income, the number of hours you work, study or volunteer, the type of approved care you use, and your child's age and immunisation status.
Once approved, the CCS is paid directly to Milestones and automatically applied to your fees, so you only pay the difference.
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 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
Are You Getting the Maximum Subsidy?
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
- 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.
How to Apply for the Child Care Subsidy
You can apply online through MyGov. Here's how the process works:
- Check your eligibility - your child must be under 13, enrolled at an approved service, and immunisations must be up to date. You must be an Australian citizen or hold an eligible visa.
- Estimate your costs - use the calculator above to get an idea of your out-of-pocket fees.
- Call our team - contact us on 1800 244 532 to confirm your centre's daily fees and discuss your options.
- Submit your CCS claim - log in to MyGov, link your Centrelink account, and submit your claim.
- Confirm your enrolment details - once your enrolment is confirmed, finalise your CCS details in MyGov.
Need a hand? Our Family Support Team is always happy to guide you through the process.
Still Have Questions?
Visit Services Australia for full CCS details and income thresholds, or get in touch with our team directly - we're here to make quality early learning affordable for every family.