Child Care Subsidy Calculator

Welcome to Sanctuary's Child Care Subsidy Calculator

Estimate how much the Australian Government may contribute to your child care fees through the Child Care Subsidy - based on your family's income, activity level and hours of care.

Who is eligible for the child care subsidy?

Most Australian families with children in approved care may be eligible for the child care subsidy (CCS). To qualify, you generally need to:

  • Be the parent or guardian of a child aged 0-5 (or up to school age) in approved care.
  • Meet Australian residency requirements.
  • Have a combined family income below $535.279 per year.
  • Use an approved child care service (long day care, family day care, outside hours care etc.)


💡 From 5 January 2026, you no longer need to meet an activity test to access at lease three days of subsidised care per week. See the 3-day guarantee section below.

How much child care subsidy can I get?

Your subsidy percentage is determined by your combined household income. The figures below reflect the current 2025-26 rates, effective from 7 July 2025. Please note this is subject to change by the Australian Government.

Combined Family Income Subsidy Rate
Up to $85, 279 90%
$85, 279 - $535, 279 Gradually reducing. Decreases by 1% per $5000 earned
$535, 279 and above Not eligible

Families with two or more children aged five or under in care may receive a higher subsidy rate (up to 95%) for their second and younger children, for incomes up to $367, 563.


Please also note that the subsidy only covers up to $146.30 a day. If your centre's daily fee is higher than this amount, you will also need to take into consideration the gap fee that is not covered by the Child Care Subsidy.

The 3-Day child care guarantee

As of 5 January 2026, all CCS-eligible families are guaranteed at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight (around three days per week) — regardless of work, study, or activity levels.

Your child can access early learning and social development even if you're not currently working or studying.

Families who work more than 48 hours per fortnight in recognised activities may access up to 100 hours of subsidised care.

First Nations families are entitled to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight regardless of activity levels

Your subsidy percentage is still determined by your family income - the 3-day Guarantee only affects the minimum hours of care you can access.

Child Care Subsidy Calculator

Supporting families across our centres

Families across our Sanctuary Early Learning Adventure community use the above calculator to plan ahead, including those at:

Wherever you’re located, we’re here to support your family’s journey.

Want a more accurate estimate?

While our calculator is a helpful guide, your exact Child Care Subsidy will be confirmed through Services Australia.


Our team is always here to help you understand your options and next steps.

  • How accurate is the child care subsidy calculator?

    It provides an estimate only. Your final subsidy amount is confirmed by Services Australia.

  • Can I get CCS without meeting the Activity Test?

    Yes. Families can access up to 72 hours per fortnight under the 3-day guarantee, even without meeting the activity test.

  • How many days is 72 hours of care?

    This is roughly equivalent to 3 days per week, depending on your centre’s daily session length.

  • What information do I need to use the calculator?

    You’ll need:


    • Your household income estimate
    • Your work or activity hours
    • Your child care requirements

  • Does CCS cover all child care costs?

    No, CCS contributes towards your fees but you may still have out-of-pocket expenses. 

  • Can I use this calculator before enrolling?

    Yes. It’s designed to help you plan ahead and understand your costs before making a decision.