Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Calculator
Affordable care. Exceptional quality. Your family deserves the best!
At Kenmore Hills Early Learning, we believe in embracing Wildhood—a return to nature-filled childhoods where play, exploration, and imagination thrive. Our nature-based approach encourages children to connect with the environment, fostering creativity, independence, and a love for learning.
We are committed to providing a nurturing, home-like environment where children feel safe, supported, and inspired to discover their unique potential. Our Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten program, led by university-qualified teachers, prepares children for school through hands-on learning experiences.
We also work closely with families, offering resources and opportunities to be part of your child’s learning journey. Sustainability is central to our philosophy, instilling eco-friendly practices from an early age.
Discover how our programs can help your child flourish while supporting your family with the Child Care Subsidy. Use our CCS calculator below and see how much you can save at Kenmore Hills Early Learning.
What is Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a federal government payment designed to help eligible families reduce their child care costs. It’s means-tested, based on your family’s income, circumstances, and the activity levels of parents, such as work, study, or volunteering. To be eligible, you must be an Australian citizen or hold an eligible visa, and your child must meet immunisation requirements.
CCS covers various types of care, including long day care and before- or after-school care. The subsidy is paid directly to child care providers, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Families need to apply through Centrelink and update their details if circumstances change.
What is Free Kindy?
Queensland’s free kindy program offers eligible children 15 hours per week for 40 weeks of quality early education in the year before Prep. Delivered by qualified teachers in sessional kindergartens or long day care, it helps children develop key skills in literacy, numeracy, and socialisation.
To qualify, children must turn four by 30 June of the attending year. The program is free, though additional care outside the 15 hours may incur costs, potentially offset by the Child Care Subsidy.
For details or to find a program near you, visit the Queensland Government’s Early Childhood website.
The Child Care Subsidy Explained
The Child Care Subsidy can be confusing and overwhelming! And I’m saying this as someone who has worked in early childhood since I left school. Since becoming a parent I have had to navigate the system from the family side and have often been left perplexed. I sat down and had a chat with our resident expert Shantel. Click here to read more.
How do I apply for the subsidy?
The application process is completed through your myGov account, where you’ll link to Centrelink. Once approved, your eligibility and subsidy rate will be confirmed. Be sure to share your Centrelink Reference Number (CRN) with Kenmore Hills Early Learning so we can ensure your subsidy is applied correctly.
Who is eligible for the Child Care Subsidy?
To access the CCS, your child must be under 13 years old and not attending secondary school. Parents or guardians must meet the activity requirements, such as working, studying, or volunteering. Your family’s income must also fall within the eligibility criteria set by the government.
How is the subsidy amount calculated?
Your subsidy is based on several factors, including your family’s income, the number of hours of care your child requires, and the hours you engage in recognised activities, such as work or study. The government uses a tiered system, meaning the lower your income, the higher your subsidy percentage.
How is the subsidy applied to fees?
Once approved, the subsidy is paid directly to Kenmore Hills Early Learning. This reduces the fees you need to pay, leaving you responsible for covering the gap between the subsidy and our rates.
What happens if my circumstances change?
If your family’s income, work hours, or circumstances change, it’s essential to update your details with Centrelink through myGov. Keeping your information up to date ensures your subsidy is accurate and avoids any disruptions to your payments.
Can Kenmore Hills Early Learning assist with my CCS application?
Absolutely. We know the process can feel overwhelming, so our team is here to help. Whether you need advice or assistance, we’re happy to guide you through the steps to apply for CCS and ensure your family is set up correctly.
Is it necessary to renew my subsidy each year?
Yes, CCS eligibility needs to be confirmed annually. Centrelink will prompt you to update your details, typically at the end of the financial year, to avoid any interruptions in your payments.
Where can I find more information?
For more information about the Child Care Subsidy, you can visit the Services Australia website or contact Kenmore Hills Early Learning. Our team is always available to help with any questions about CCS or your enrolment.
