Child Care Subsidy
Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a payment offered by the Australian Government for which parent/guardians may be eligible, to assist with the cost of fees. Families who receive CCS will then pay the “gap fee” or “out of pocket”. The gap fee is the difference between the full fee charged at the service per session and the CCS payment.
Can I claim Government Child Care Subsidy if I enrol with Ambrose?
Ambrose Early Learning:
- Extended Hours Preschool – Plumpton, St Luke’s, Santa Sophia, Blacktown, Stanhope Gardens and Greystanes
Yes, we are a registered childcare provider, which means that eligible families are able to claim the Government Child Care Subsidy relating to your childcare. You may also be eligible for fee relief provided through the Start Strong Program.
- Traditional Hours Preschools – Emerton and Greystanes
No, but these are eligible for different government funding, under the Start Strong Program.
Ambrose School Age Care including Ambrose Vacation Care:
Yes, all of Ambrose School Age Services are approved for the Child Care Subsidy.
See an example of how the Child Care Subsidy can reduce your out of pocket costs here.
Most families pay around $4 - $12* per session after Child Care Subsidy for Before and After School Hours Care at Ambrose.
*Please note that the prices provided are indicative only and may vary depending on individual CCS eligibility.
How much is CCS?
Subsidy amounts are calculated and approved by the Australian Government Department of Human Services.
The amount you receive from the CCS depends on circumstances such as:
- your family’s income
- the hourly rate cap based on the type of approved child care you use and your child’s age
- the number of children in your care.
2025-2026 CCS rates per income band
| Family Income | Subsidy Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $85,279 | 90% |
| More than $85,279 to below $535,279 | Between 90% and 0% The pecentage decreases by 1% for every $5,000 of income a family earns above $85,279 |
| $535,279 or more | 0% |
This Payment and Service Finder is an easy-to-use online tool to help you work out how much you may be eligible to receive.
Additional Support: Families facing hardship or specific circumstances may qualify for extra assistance through the Additional Child Care Subsidy.
How is CCS paid?
The parent’s/carer’s Child Care Subsidy will be paid weekly to your Ambrose service to further reduce the weekly fee.
How do I know if I am eligible for Child Care Subsidy?
There are a few factors that impact eligibility, like residency requirements and your child’s age. The full list of the up-to date criteria is available on the Services Australia website.
How do I claim Childcare Subsidy?
The parent or carer must register and apply for the Child Care Subsidy through MyGov website or App. Parents or Carers registered for the Child Care Subsidy must be the ‘Account Holder’ with Ambrose. In order for the service to receive eligible CCS payments the Account Holder (parent/guardian) with Ambrose must provide the relevant centre with the correct Customer Reference Number (CRN) and date of birth for:
- The parent/carer, and
- Each child attending (there is a separate CRN for each child) together with;
- Signing the Complying Written Arrangement (CWA) in Xplor and
The enrolment must also be confirmed by the Account Holder (parent/guardian) in their MyGov account within 7 days of their child commencing at the service.
Key changes in 2026
From January 5, 2026, the Federal Government’s 3-Day Guarantee has removed the activity test, ensuring all Child Care Subsidy (CCS) eligible families receive at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, equivalent to three days per week, regardless of work or study commitments. Learn more about the 3-Day Guarantee.
Check out this Services Australia video for more information on CCS and your eligibility
More information
To find out more information about CCS and eligibility, please visit Services Australia Child Care Subsidy – Services Australia
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