CCS Child Care Subsidy: How It Helps Families Save on Childcare Fees
Childcare fees can feel overwhelming for many families. CCS, or the Child Care Subsidy, is the main way the government helps reduce these costs. It makes early education more affordable and gives children more time to learn, play, and feel part of a community.
At Poplars Early Learning, we want families to feel supported and informed. Understanding CCS can help you plan childcare with confidence and know exactly what you can expect to pay.
What Is the CCS Childcare Subsidy?
Services Australia manages the Child Care Subsidy and helps reduce the cost of childcare for most families. It is paid directly to approved centres and reduces your out-of-pocket fees.
CCS is designed to make early education more accessible and to support families who work, study, look for work, or are taking care of children at home.
The New 3 Day CCS Legislation and What It Means for Your Family
Recent changes to CCS mean children now have access to at least three days of subsidised childcare each week, even if parents do not meet the previous activity requirements.
This gives families more flexibility and removes stress for those who work casual hours, study part-time, or are returning to work. Children can enjoy stable early education each week, which helps with confidence, learning, and routine.
If you want a deeper breakdown of the new rule, read our blog post on the 3-Day Guarantee. This change gives more children in Canberra the chance to join quality early education and gives parents more breathing room when planning childcare.
What It Means for Poplars’ Families
At Poplars Early Learning, Approved Provider Fiona O’Donnell, who has more than 35 years of experience in early education, says many parents are already planning ahead for the 2026 changes.
“We’re seeing current families secure extra days now to make sure they’re ready when the new subsidy starts. New families are also enquiring early to take advantage of the 3-Day Guarantee. It’s such a great help for working families trying to balance care and cost.”
Both our centres at Holt and Jerrabomberra are supporting families as they plan for next year, helping them understand how the new subsidy will fit into their care arrangements.
Who Can Receive CCS?
Most families with children under 13 can receive CCS if:
You use an approved childcare service
Your child meets immunisation requirements
You have a myGov account linked to Centrelink
It is simple, and most families meet the basic criteria.
How CCS Is Calculated for Your Family
CCS is based on a few simple factors.
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Your family income will determine the percentage of childcare fees the government covers. The lower your income, the higher your CCS rate.
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This used to be a major factor for families, but the new 3-Day Guarantee means every child now receives three subsidised days, no matter your activity level.
If you need more than three days, your work, study, or volunteering hours help determine your CCS level for extra days.
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This is the amount the government uses to calculate the subsidy. It is not the fee your centre charges, but it does affect your final out-of-pocket cost.
How to Apply for CCS
You can apply for CCS through myGov. It only takes a few steps.
Create or sign in to your myGov account
Link your account to Centrelink
Complete a CCS claim
Provide your family and income details
Confirm your childcare enrolment once Poplars enters it into the system
How Much Can Families Save with CCS
Every family is different, but CCS often covers a very large part of the fee.
Here are simple examples to help you picture it.
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The new 3-Day rule means all families receive a subsidy for these days. Many families pay only a portion of the daily fee.
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Your CCS percentage is higher for your second child. This means even greater savings.
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CCS covers a percentage of the cost, so your fee reduces across any number of days.
Tips to Make CCS Work Best for Your Family
A few simple steps can help keep your subsidy accurate.
Keep your income estimate up to date
Update your activity hours if you use more than three days
Understand your allowed absent days
Choose session lengths that match your schedule
Reach out to us if anything changes
These small steps will help prevent unexpected fees.
What Happens if Your Situation Changes?
If your income changes, you start a new job, reduce hours, or welcome another child, you can easily update your details in myGov. CCS will be recalculated for you. We are also here to support you through any change and answer questions along the way.
How CCS Works at Poplars Early Learning
We want families to feel supported through each step of the CCS process. Our team can explain your fees in simple terms, answer questions, and help you understand how your subsidy applies.
We care about making quality early education accessible for every family.
You can explore our centres here:
Visit Holt
Visit Jerrabomberra (opening soon)
Why CCS Makes Early Education More Accessible for Canberra Families
The Child Care Subsidy plays a big part in making early education possible for more children. It helps families manage costs, gives children more time to learn, and supports parents returning to work or study.
This is why we believe CCS is such an important part of creating strong, confident, and happy starts for children at Poplars.
Ready to Start Childcare and Use Your CCS?
If you would like to check your CCS and start planning your childcare, we are here to help and look forward to welcoming you and your family.
