A Complete Guide to Understanding the Child Care Subsidy Program

While enrolling your child to a preschool or school, choosing the right child care plan is a big decision. It is important to know how the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) works, who qualifies for it and if your child care centre offers it.

In this article, let us learn about CCS and how the Child Care Subsidy Program in Hornsby can help your family access high-quality Montessori education at Kinderhaus.

What Is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?

The Australian Government has designed the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) program to reduce the burden of approved child care service costs on parents. As a parent, the subsidy amount will not be reimbursed to you; it will be directly paid to the Montessori Preschool, while you will have to pay only the balance amount.

How is it beneficial?

• Pay less upfront fees.

• Clarity on the fee structure.

• Makes it easy to plan a budget for the family.

The CCS amount is determined by the household income, other financial commitments, and family situation.

Who Is Eligible for CCS?

Below are the criteria which determine your eligibility for CCS. You may be eligible if you:

• Are you paying child care fees for a child aged 13 or below?

• Are you an Australian resident

• Use an approved CCS provider like Kinderhaus Montessori Preschool

• Meet immunisation requirements

• Meet Centrelink’s activity requirement (working, studying, volunteering, or job-seeking)

If you meet the above criteria, there is a good chance your family qualifies for Child Care Subsidy.

Understanding the CCS Activity Test

The CCS activity test helps determine the total number of subsidised child care hours one can receive each fortnight. In simple words, the more you are involved in the recognised activities, you will be eligible for more subsidised hours during that period.

What counts as an “activity” as per the CCS Activity test?

• Any form of employment, full-time or part-time.

• Self-employment

• Studying or training

• Volunteer work

• Searching for a job

• Parenting activities for families with infants

Generally, the number of subsidised hours received each fortnight is equal to the number of activity hours for that period. Even a small, meaningful activity can unlock child care support for you.

How CCS Works at Kinderhaus Montessori Preschool

Once your CCS is approved, it is very easy to manage payments at Kinderhaus Montessori Preschool.

• The subsidy amount is paid directly to Kinderhaus Montessori Preschool.

• You have to pay only the invoice amount, which reflects the reduced fees after deducting the subsidy amount.

• The subsidy adjustments are directly handled by the centre.

• The details of CCS are accessible through your MyGov account

Additional support options:

• The Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) is available for families requiring short-term financial help.

• Preschool Exemption offers additional help for children in the year before entering school.

How Much Can You Save With the Child Care Subsidy Program Hornsby?

The amount of subsidy you receive is based on your household income and can be anything between 0% to 90%. Some of the factors that influence the percentage of CCs you receive are:

• Your annual household income

• The type of child care service

• Your activity hours

• Your child’s age

• Your weekly enrolled hours

You will be surprised to learn how significantly CCS can reduce fees, especially for long-term early education.

Why Choose Kinderhaus for Subsidised Montessori Learning?

Finding a child care centre that offers quality education with financial accessibility is very important.

Here’s what sets Kinderhaus Montessori apart:

Genuine Montessori Curriculum

Children learn in a Montessori environment backed by 30+ years of expertise. They grow up to be independent, confident and inquisitive individuals.  

All-Inclusive Care

From healthy meals cooked onsite to orchard-style outdoor play and structured school-readiness programs, Kinderhaus covers everything your child needs during their day.

Small, Boutique Environment

Each class has only 26 children, allowing teachers to form strong connections with every child and family, creating a warm, nurturing, and personalised experience.

Conclusion

Understanding the Child Care Subsidy Program Hornsby, should not be overwhelming. With the right information and a supportive child care centre like Kinderhaus Montessori Preschool, you can be assured about your financial options and your child’s early learning journey.

Whether you want to know your CCS eligibility or are looking for a centre offering genuine Montessori education, Kinderhaus is here to guide you every step of the way.

FAQs

1. How much will I actually have to pay after CCS?

Your final fees for child care depend on the subsidy percentage and enrolled hours. Child care centres like Kinderhaus will invoice you only for the reduced amount after CCS is applied.

2. Does the number of hours I work affect my subsidy?

Yes. Your activity level determines the number of subsidised hours you receive.

3. Can I receive CCS if my child attends part-time?

Yes, CCS can be availed for both part-time and full-time enrolments. It is based on your eligible activity hours.

4. Does Kinderhaus help families understand their CCS options?

Yes. Our experienced team at Kinderhaus guides families through CCS, ACCS, and preschool exemptions to ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.