Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Explained for NSWUnderstanding the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)

The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a financial support program provided by the NSW Government and Services Australia to help families cover the cost of early childhood education and care. This subsidy is paid directly to approved childcare providers, reducing the amount you need to pay out of pocket.

At Big Bear Academy, we are a registered childcare provider eligible to receive the CCS on your behalf, making childcare more affordable and accessible for your family.

How the CCS Works

The amount of CCS you receive depends on:

• Your combined family income – Lower-income families receive a higher percentage of the subsidy.

• Your recognised activity level – This includes work, study, volunteering, or other approved activities. The more activity hours you complete, the more subsidy you may receive.

• Your childcare provider's fees – The government covers a percentage of the provider’s fees up to a set hourly rate.

For full details on CCS rates and income thresholds, visit:
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the CCS, you must:

• Be using an approved childcare provider like Big Bear Academy

• Have a child who meets the government’s immunisation requirements

• Meet the income and activity tests set by Services Australia

You can check your eligibility and apply through MyGov:
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/apply-child-care-subsidy

Absence Days & Subsidy Rules

• Families can claim up to 42 absence days per financial year for any reason without documentation.

• In certain situations, additional absence days may be approved.

• If your child does not attend childcare for 14 consecutive weeks, your enrolment will be cancelled, and CCS payments will stop.

For more information on CCS absence day rules, visit:
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/absence-days-for-child-care-subsidy

Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS)

Some families may be eligible for extra financial support under the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS), which provides higher subsidy rates for:

• Grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren

• Families transitioning to work and needing temporary assistance

• Families experiencing financial hardship

• Children at risk of neglect or abuse

To learn more about ACCS, visit:
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/additional-child-care-subsidy

How to Apply for CCS

Applying for the Child Care Subsidy is simple and can be done online through MyGov by linking your account to Centrelink. Keep in mind that claims can only be backdated up to 28 days, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible.

Start your application here:
https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/child-care-subsidy/how-claim

Big Bear Academy: Making Childcare More Affordable

At Big Bear Academy, we understand the importance of quality early childhood education and the financial pressures families face. As a registered CCS provider, we work with parents to ensure they receive the maximum subsidy available to reduce costs.

For any questions about how the Child Care Subsidy applies to your childcare fees, or to enrol your child at Big Bear Academy, contact us today!