What is the CCS?
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is an Australian Government initiative designed to make childcare more affordable by providing financial assistance.
The subsidy amount is paid directly to the childcare provider, meaning families only have to pay the ‘gap’, which is the difference between the provider’s fee and the CCS amount.
How much CCS are you eligible for?
With the new ‘3 Day Guarantee’, all CCS eligible families can now get 3 days of subsidised childcare per week (72 hours per fortnight), regardless of their participation level.
Families can access 100 hours of subsidised car per fortnight if they meet participation requirements, care for an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander child, have an exemption or exceptional circumstances, or receive Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS).
2026-2027 Child Care Subsidy Rates
The percentage that the government will subsidise will apply to the hourly fee charged at your childcare provider, or the hourly rate cap, whichever is lower. The 2026-2027 hourly rate cap for Centre-based Care is $15.19.
| Family Income | Subsidy Rate |
| Up to $88,520 | 90% |
| More than $88,520 to below $538,520 | Between 90% and 0% The percentage decreases by 1% for every $5,000 of income a family earns. |
| $538,520 or more | 0% |
Rates for Second and Younger Children
| Family Income | Second and Younger Children Subsidy Rate |
| $0 to $146,437 | 95% |
| More than $146,437 to below $191,437 | Decreasing from 95% The percentage decreases by 1% for every $3,000 of income a family earns. |
| $191,437 to below $270,727 | 80% |
| $270,727 to below $360,727 | Decreasing from 80% The percentage decreases by 1% for every $3,000 of income a family earns. |
| $360,727 to below $370,727 | 50% |
| $370,727 or more | Higher CCS rates no longer apply. All children in the family will receive the standard CCS rate. |
Can I claim CCS when enrolling at SOEL?
Yes, Schools of Early Learning (SOEL) is a CCS approved Child Care service and we highly recommend families utilise this program to enjoy reduced fees.
We recommend submitting a CCS claim via Centrelink one month before your child commences at SOEL.