3 Day Childcare Subsidy Update – Everything Families Need to Know

Website Icon_Calender
Website Icon_Author

There’s great news for Australian families! 🌟

From 5th January 2026, the Australian Government’s new 3 Day Childcare Subsidy Update will come into effect – giving every family access to at least 3 days of subsidised childcare per week, no matter their work or study hours.

What’s Changing

Until now, the amount of subsidised care a family could access depended on an ‘Activity Test’ – which linked each family’s number of subsidised hours to the number of hours each parent or guardian worked, studied or volunteered.

From 5th January 2026, this requirement will be removed for the first three days of care each week. That means all families, regardless of their activity level, can receive government subsidies for at least three days of approved care.

Please note: you must still have an active claim with Centrelink, so please ensure all your account information is up to date. 

Why This Matters

This change is all about making care more affordable and accessible for families who need it most. It helps ensure that every child can benefit from quality education and care – and every family can enjoy a little more balance and flexibility.

For families who previously missed out on subsidised hours due to the activity test, this could mean savings of up to $1,460 a year on average. 💛

What This Means for You at TeamKids

Whether you’re booking Before or After School Care or planning ahead for School Vacation Care Programs, the new 3 Day Childcare Subsidy Update makes it easier than ever to access TeamKids’ exceptional programs – where children laugh, learn, and grow every day.

Please note: while this new scheme grants all families access to three days of subsidised childcare, bookings at TeamKids are not automatic and must be made in advance.

To make the most of your subsidy, we recommend:
✅ Checking your Centrelink details are active and up to date.
✅ Booking your 2026 sessions early to secure your preferred days and venues.

At TeamKids, we’re proud to support this change that gives every child more opportunities to connect, play, and thrive. 🌈

🧡 Find your nearest venue and book your care today: www.teamkids.com.au/venues
💙 Learn more about the 3 Day Childcare Subsidy Update: education.gov.au/early-childhood/providers/child-care-subsidy/3 Day-guarantee

💚 Still have questions? Check out our FAQs

You Might Also Like