How to use the Child Care Subsidy Calculator
- 1 Enter your combined family income.
- 2 Enter the daily fee and hours charged a day.
- 3 Choose the number of days a week.
- 4 Choose the type of care and read your gap fee.
Worked example
A family earning $150,000 uses centre-based day care at $150 for a 10-hour day, three days a week. Their subsidy rate is 77%, so the subsidy is about $115.50 a day and their gap is $34.50. Over a fortnight they pay about $207.
Features
2026-27 income test
90% up to $88,520, then 1% less per $5,000.
Hourly rate caps
Subsidy only on fees up to the cap.
3 Day Guarantee
At least 72 subsidised hours a fortnight.
Gap fee
Your out-of-pocket cost a day and a fortnight.
When to use it
Returning to work
Work out the cost of going back.
Choosing a centre
Compare fees between services.
Extra days
See the cost of adding a day.
Budgeting
Plan fortnightly costs.
Frequently asked questions
How much Child Care Subsidy will I get?
Families earning up to $88,520 get 90% of the fee up to the hourly rate cap. The percentage falls by 1% for every $5,000 above that, and stops at $538,520.
What is the hourly rate cap?
The most the subsidy is based on per hour. For 2026-27 it is $15.19 for centre-based day care for children below school age, $13.30 for school-age children and $14.08 for family day care.
What is the 3 Day Guarantee?
From January 2026, all eligible families get at least 72 subsidised hours a fortnight, regardless of activity. Families meeting higher activity levels get up to 100 hours.
Is there a higher rate for younger siblings?
Yes. Families with more than one child aged 5 or under in care may get a higher rate for the younger children, if income is below the limit.
How is the subsidy paid?
Directly to your provider, who reduces your fees. You pay the gap.
Why is 5% withheld?
Services Australia usually withholds 5% of the subsidy to cover any debt when it balances your payments after the financial year.
What income is used?
Your estimated combined family adjusted taxable income for the financial year. Update it if your income changes.
How do I claim?
Through your Centrelink online account with myGov, and your provider must confirm your enrolment.
What if my fee is higher than the cap?
You pay the full difference above the cap as well as your share below it.
Is this exact?
It is an estimate. Your actual subsidy depends on hours charged, your income, and your activity level.
Results are estimates based on the official rates linked above. Confirm important figures with the issuing authority or a qualified adviser before you act on them.
Reviewed by ToolsUnlocked Team · Last updated