Introducing the 3-Day Guarantee

Starting 5 January 2026, the Federal Government is making childcare more affordable through the new 3-Day Guarantee. This initiative provides families with increased support via the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), giving more children access to quality early learning and care.

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What is the 3-Day Guarantee?

The 3-Day Guarantee is a Federal Government program aimed at making early learning more accessible, particularly for families with low or irregular incomes. It ensures every child can benefit from early childhood education by providing a guaranteed minimum of subsidised childcare hours.

How does the 3-Day Guarantee differ from the current CCS?

Currently, families must meet an activity test to qualify for CCS. This test looks at the number of hours parents spend working, studying, training, or completing recognised activities to determine subsidy eligibility. Families not meeting the test may only receive 24 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.

From January 2026, the 3-Day Guarantee removes the activity test for the first 72 hours of subsidised care each fortnight. This means every child can access at least three days (72 hours) of CCS-supported care every two weeks, regardless of parental employment status.

Why is it called the 3-Day Guarantee?

The name comes from the 72 hours of subsidised care guaranteed over a fortnight—equivalent to 36 hours per week. For centres offering 12-hour sessions, this covers three full days of care each week, hence the name “3-Day Guarantee.”

Do families need to book three days to qualify?

Not necessarily. The subsidy is calculated based on 72 hours across a fortnight. Children could attend two days one week and four the next and still receive full subsidy coverage.

Does ‘guaranteed’ mean childcare is free?

No. The CCS reduces the out-of-pocket costs for families, but parents are still responsible for the gap fee—the difference between the subsidy and the centre’s daily rate.

How will families benefit?

The 3-Day Guarantee could result in significant savings. For example:

• Family scenario: Jenny and David have one child attending three days a week (36 hours). Their household income is $90,000, with Jenny working part-time and David full-time.
• Current 2025 CCS: Eligible for 24 hours of subsidised care per week.
• From 2026: Eligible for 36 hours per week under the 3-Day Guarantee, saving approximately $230 per week or $11,400 annually based on average 2025–26 fees.

Who is eligible for the 3-Day Guarantee?

Families with a combined household income under $535,279 (2025–26 financial year) and who meet Australian residency requirements can access the subsidy. While the activity test is removed, the CCS will continue to be income-tested.

Can families receive more than three days of subsidised care?

Yes. Additional hours may be available for families who:

• Care for an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander child
• Work, study, or volunteer over 48 hours per fortnight
• Have a valid exemption or exceptional circumstances
• Receive Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) for wellbeing, hardship, or grandparent care
• If you currently receive more hours per fortnight

Do I need to update my Centrelink information?

Most families will be automatically transitioned to the new system. It’s still important to confirm your income estimate and ensure all Centrelink details are current.