From January 2026, more families will be able to access three days of subsidised early learning, even if they don’t meet the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) activity test.
This update, known as the 3 Day Guarantee, is one of the biggest changes to the CCS since it began. And for families who’ve previously only been eligible for one subsidised day per week, it’s a game changer.
If you’re planning to enrol your child in care next year, now is the time to learn what’s changing and how to take advantage of it.
What Is the 3 Day Guarantee?
The 3 Day Guarantee gives eligible families 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight (equivalent to three days per week in most long day care settings).
Currently, families who don’t meet the activity test are only eligible for 24 hours per fortnight, roughly one day per week.
From January 2026, that changes. You’ll be able to access more hours of care at a lower cost, even if you don’t work, study, or volunteer enough to meet the current CCS requirements.
Who Is Eligible for the 3 Day Guarantee?
You may be eligible if you:
- Don’t meet the CCS activity test
- Have a child under 5 years old (not yet at school)
- Are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy
- Have a family income under $535,279 per year
Check your eligibility on Services Australia
Real-Life Example: Meet Sarah and Leo
To help you picture how this change might affect your family, let’s take a look at a typical scenario.
| Subsidised days/week | 1 day | 3 days |
| Daily fee | $140 | $140 |
| CCS rate | 85% | 85% |
| Out-of-pocket per week | $21.00 | $63.00 |
Sarah, a single mum in Brisbane, works casually and doesn’t meet the CCS activity test. In 2025, she could only afford one day of subsidised care for her 3-year-old son Leo.
From 2026, she’ll be eligible for the full 72 hours, allowing Leo to attend three days per week, giving him more opportunities to play, learn, and grow. And for Sarah? It’s a chance to work more, rest more, or just catch her breath.
Why the 3 Day Guarantee Matters
Early learning isn’t just about care, it’s about building the foundations for life. Children who attend high-quality early learning programs regularly are more confident, resilient, and prepared for school.
More subsidised days mean:
- More consistent routines for your child
- More time to build friendships
- More opportunity to learn through play
- More flexibility for you and your family
Why Families Choose Milestones Early Learning
At Milestones, we’re committed to quality education, safety, and supporting every child’s development from their very first day.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Safety and quality first - We go beyond minimum standards with dedicated national teams focused on quality, compliance, and education.
- Experienced, highly qualified educators - Our teams are supported to grow their skills through the Affinity Learning Academy.
- All-inclusive daily fee - No surprise costs. Nappies, meals, and learning resources are included.
- Healthy meals every day - Our onsite chefs prepare nutritionally balanced meals and snacks that children love.
- School Readiness focus - Our programs help children build the confidence, curiosity, and foundational skills they need for lifelong learning.
- A welcoming environment - We partner with families to create a sense of belonging, where children feel safe, seen, and supported.
Every day, our team works to give your child the best start in life.
Our Curriculum: Learning for Life
As part of our exclusive Lifelong Learning Curriculum, your child will enjoy age-specific programs designed to nurture their development at every stage:
- Healthy Beginnings (0–1 years) - Focused on bonding, sensory exploration and routines
- Early Experiences (1–3 years) - Language-rich play, curiosity, and early problem-solving
- School Readiness (3–5 years) - Building skills for school and beyond through inquiry-based learning
Whether your child is just starting out or preparing for prep, we’re here to help them thrive.
What to Do Now
While the changes come into effect in January 2026, families are already planning ahead, and places are expected to fill quickly.
Secure your child’s place now to avoid missing out on your preferred days, especially in our nursery and toddler rooms.
Call our Family Support Team on 1800 244 532.
Questions About Eligibility?
To learn more about the 3 Day Guarantee and your CCS entitlements, please visit Services Australia.
Final Thoughts
The 3 Day Guarantee is more than just a policy change, it’s a chance for more families to experience the benefits of high-quality early education, and for more children to learn, grow, and connect in a nurturing environment.
At Milestones, we’re proud to offer safe, supportive, and inspiring spaces for every child to begin their learning journey.
👉 Book a tour or enquire today to give your little one the very best start in life.