The Australian Government is making significant changes to the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to provide more support for families and move towards a universal early education and care system. Announced on 11 December 2024, these changes will take effect from 5 January 2026, ensuring that more families receive subsidised childcare hours.

Key Changes to the CCS in 2026

The new subsidy rules will make childcare more accessible by adjusting how subsidised hours are calculated. Here’s what will change:

Minimum of 3 Days of Subsidised Care per Week for All Families

• All CCS-eligible families will now receive three days of subsidised childcare per week for each child, regardless of their work or study commitments.
• This means that more children will have access to early education and care, supporting their learning and development.

Increased Support for First Nations Families

• Families caring for First Nations children will receive 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight per child.
• This measure aims to provide greater access to childcare and early education for Indigenous communities, supporting cultural and educational growth.

Additional Support for Working, Training, and Volunteering Families

Families will continue to receive 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight per child if they:

• Work, train, study, or volunteer for more than 48 hours per fortnight.
• Qualify for an exemption under the CCS rules.

How CCS Eligibility is Determined

While the changes expand access to subsidised care, the actual subsidy percentage families receive will still depend on:

• Combined family income – Higher-income families may receive a lower subsidy rate.
• Hourly rate caps – The government sets limits on the amount of subsidy per hour.
• Number of children in care – Families with multiple children in care may receive additional support.
• Age of children – Different rates apply depending on whether the child is in early learning or school-age care.

What’s Next?

The Australian Government is working with Services Australia to ensure childcare providers and families are prepared for the transition in January 2026. More details and guidance will be provided in the coming months to help families understand how these changes will affect them.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 CCS changes represent a significant step towards making early childhood education more accessible for Australian families. By ensuring that all CCS-eligible families receive at least three days of subsidised care and increasing support for First Nations children, these reforms will ease financial pressures and improve early learning opportunities.

As we approach the rollout, families are encouraged to stay informed and check their eligibility to make the most of these new benefits. Stay tuned for further updates as the government finalises the implementation process!

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