Understanding Child Care Fees, Inclusions, and Government Subsidies
The cost of child care is an important factor for many families when choosing the right early learning centre. While fees can vary depending on your location, your child’s age, and how often they attend, understanding what’s included in your daily fees - and how the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), including the proposed 3-day guarantee, can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses - is the first step to making an informed decision.
At Milestones Early Learning, we offer more than just care. We provide a safe, supportive and inspiring environment where children can learn and grow, supported by qualified educators and a nationally recognised curriculum - all with exceptional value for families.
What Factors Affect Childcare Costs?
Child care fees may vary based on:
- Centre location – Fees differ depending on your region or city
- Your child’s age – Care for babies and toddlers may be higher due to lower educator-to-child ratios
- Number of days and hours your child attends each week
- Your family’s eligibility for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
Want to estimate your out-of-pocket costs? Use our Child Care Subsidy Calculator to see how much support your family may receive!
What’s Included in Your Daily Fee at Milestones?
Choosing Milestones means choosing a centre that includes more - without the surprise extras. Most of our centres include:
- Healthy, nutritious meals (most centres) – Freshly prepared on-site to meet children’s dietary needs. View our healthy menu.
- Nappies provided (most centres) – For convenience and peace of mind
- Lifelong Learning Curriculum – Our exclusive, research-based curriculum supporting school readiness, emotional development, and early learning milestones
- Play-based learning – Encouraging creativity, confidence, and cognitive development
- Outdoor play and physical movement – Supporting healthy growth through daily outdoor experiences
- Caring, qualified educators – Delivering high-quality learning in a nurturing, inclusive environment
- School Readiness extras – MathSeeds and Reading Eggs subscriptions for preschool-aged children enrolled in our School Readiness program
- Commitment to safety and quality – Supported by dedicated national teams in education, safety, and compliance
What Is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
The Child Care Subsidy is a government initiative that helps reduce the cost of early learning for eligible families. Your CCS percentage depends on:
- Your family’s combined income
- The type of service your child attends
- The number of hours you work, study, or volunteer
- Whether your child is up to date with immunisations
The CCS is paid directly to Milestones, reducing your fees automatically - you’ll only need to cover the gap.
Visit our Child Care Subsidy page to learn more.
What’s the 3-Day Guarantee?
In February 2025, the Australian Government introduced legislation to Parliament for the 3-day guarantee, aiming to provide universal access to early childhood education and care.
If passed, the guarantee would mean:
- All CCS-eligible families will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight - equivalent to three days per week
- This applies regardless of how many hours you work, study or volunteer
- Families caring for First Nations children will be eligible for 100 hours per fortnight
- Families already doing more than 48 hours of recognised activity per fortnight will continue to be eligible for up to 100 hours per child
These changes could mean more subsidised hours for more families, even if you don’t meet the current activity test.
More details will become available as the legislation progresses.
Why Early Learning Matters
Early education is more than care - it’s the foundation for lifelong learning.
According to a landmark study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies, children who attend high-quality early education programs demonstrate stronger cognitive and emotional skills, preparing them for a smoother transition to school and beyond.
Want to Know More?
To get an accurate estimate of your child care costs, contact our Family Support Team on 1800 244 532. We can help with:
- Daily fees at your preferred Milestones Early Learning centre
- Estimating your Child Care Subsidy
- Understanding your entitlements under the proposed 3-day guarantee
- Booking a tour or securing your child’s place
Curious about your potential savings? Use our Child Care Subsidy Calculator to get a personalised estimate!
Investing in Your Child’s Future
Choosing the right early learning centre is an investment in your child’s development and wellbeing. At Milestones, we provide a caring, purpose-built environment where children thrive - and we’re here to make the process simple and affordable for your family.
Call us today on 1800 244 532 to learn more about enrolment and fees!
