CCS Subsidy

More Access to Early Learning for Kalamunda & High Wycombe Families from 2026 


From January 2026, Australian families will be guaranteed access to at least 72 hours of subsidised early childhood education and care each fortnight — roughly three days per week.

 

Known as the Three Day Guarantee, this change replaces the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test and makes it easier for more children to access consistent, high-quality early learning, regardless of how many hours their parents work or study. 


At Jacaranda Childcare, we welcome this reform and the positive opportunities it brings for families in Kalamunda and High Wycombe. 


What is the Three Day Guarantee in Australian Childcare?

The Three Day Guarantee ensures that families who are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy receive a minimum level of subsidised care without needing to meet work or study requirements.

 

From January 2026: 


  • Eligible families will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised childcare per fortnight 
  • The CCS Activity Test will no longer apply to the first 72 hours 
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families will receive 100 subsidised hours per fortnight 
  • Childcare remains subsidised, not free, with subsidy levels based on household income (up to 95%) 
  • Some families may still receive more than 72 hours, depending on individual circumstances and additional subsidies 


72 Hours of Subsidised Childcare:

What It Means for Kalamunda & High Wycombe 

For many families, 72 hours will equate to around three standard days of care per week. 


Depending on how sessions are structured, families at our Kalamunda and High Wycombe centres may be able to:

 

  • Spread hours across shorter session lengths
  • Increase consistency in weekly attendance 
  • Adjust bookings to suit changing family routines
  • Reduce out-of-pocket costs by aligning session lengths with subsidies 


Session availability can vary, so we encourage families to speak with our team about what options may work best for them. 


Why the Three Day Guarantee Matters for Children

Access to regular early learning plays an important role in a child's growth and development. Consistent attendance in a quality early learning environment supports:


  • Language and communication development 
  • Social skills and emotional regulation 
  • Confidence and independence 
  • School readiness and long-term wellbeing


Previously, the Activity Test made access more difficult for families working casually, studying part-time, returning to work or seeking employment. The Three Day Guarantee removes these barriers and ensures children can participate in early learning based on their developmental needs. 



Planning Childcare for 2026 in Kalamunda & High Wycombe 


As these changes come into effect, some families may choose to:

 

  • Add an additional day of care 
  • Adjust session lengths 
  • Move to more consistent weekly bookings 
  • Secure places earlier due to increased demand 


If you think your childcare needs may change in 2026, we recommend speaking with Jacaranda Childcare early so we can support your planning. 

Three Day Guarantee Childcare FAQs 

  • Who is eligible for the Three Day Guarantee?

    All families eligible for the Child Care Subsidy will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, regardless of work or study hours. 

  • When does the Three Day Guarantee start?

    The changes apply from 5 January 2026, under the Early Childhood Education and Care (Three Day Guarantee) legislation. 

  • Is childcare free under the Three Day Guarantee?

    No. Childcare remains subsidised, not free. Eligible families may receive subsidies of up to 95%, depending on household income. 

  • Who receives 100 hours of subsidised care?

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and families eligible for certain additional subsidies or exemptions. 

  • Do families need to reapply for CCS?

    No. Existing CCS arrangements will automatically transition into the new system. 

Early Learning at Jacaranda Childcare Kalamunda & High Wycombe 

At Jacaranda Childcare, our early learning programs support children to grow, learn and thrive through play-based experiences in a warm, inclusive environment. 


Our approach focuses on: 

Building early literacy and numeracy foundations 

Supporting social and emotional development 

Encouraging curiosity, creativity and independence 

Preparing children for a confident transition to school 

Talk to Jacaranda Childcare in Kalamunda or High Wycombe

Understanding childcare changes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t need to navigate them alone. 


If you’d like to discuss how the Three Day Guarantee may affect your child’s enrolment or bookings for 2026, our friendly team is here to help. 


Contact Jacaranda Childcare or book a tour at our Kalamunda or High Wycombe centre to learn more.