We’re replacing the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) activity test

Published: 17 December 2025

From 5 January 2026, families can get at least 72 hours of subsidised child care per fortnight, or 3 days per week. The change is known as the 3 Day Guarantee.

You can still get up to 100 hours of subsidised child care per fortnight if either one of the following apply:

  • you and your partner, if you have one, each do more than 48 hours of recognised participation every fortnight, like work or study
  • you have a valid exemption.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children can get 100 hours of subsidised child care per fortnight.

You’ll still need to pay a gap fee or out of pocket cost to your child care provider.

Find out more about changes to CCS, including how to claim CCS.

Page last updated: 17 December 2025.
QC 83516