Families in Ashfield, New South Wales, have access to a range of government subsidies designed to make childcare and preschool services more affordable. These subsidies are administered by both the Australian and New South Wales (NSW) governments and are available to eligible families using approved services.
1. Australian Government: Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is the primary form of financial assistance provided by the Australian Government to help families with the cost of approved childcare services. The subsidy is paid directly to the childcare provider, reducing the fees families pay out-of-pocket.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for CCS, families must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: The child must be an Australian citizen or hold an eligible visa.
- Care Responsibility: The family must be responsible for paying childcare fees.
- Immunisation: The child must meet the Australian Government’s immunisation requirements.
- Age: The child must be under 13 years of age and not attending secondary school unless an exemption applies.
- Care Arrangement: The family must be using an approved childcare service.
Subsidy Amount
The amount of CCS a family can receive depends on several factors, including:
- Family Income: Higher income families receive a lower subsidy.
- Activity Level: The number of hours the parents or guardians engage in recognised activities (e.g., work, study, volunteering) affects the subsidy rate.
- Child’s Age: Children aged 0–5 years are eligible for up to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, while children aged 6–13 years are eligible for up to 50 hours.
From 5 January 2026, eligible families will receive three days of subsidised care each week for each child, regardless of their activity level. Families caring for First Nations children will receive 100 hours of subsidised care each fortnight for each child.
2. NSW Government: Start Strong Funding
The NSW Government provides additional funding to support preschool education through the Start Strong program. This funding aims to make preschool more affordable and accessible for families.
Start Strong for Families
Under the Start Strong for Families initiative, families can receive fee relief for preschool-aged children attending eligible services. In 2025, families may save up to $2,174 per year for children aged 4 and up, and up to $515 per year for children aged 3 in eligible long day care services.
Start Strong for Community Preschools
Community and mobile preschools in Ashfield may also benefit from the Start Strong for Community Preschools program. This program provides sustainable long-term funding to deliver at least 600 hours of low or no-cost preschool to eligible children.
3. Additional Subsidies
Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS)
The Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) provides extra assistance to families facing specific circumstances, such as:
- Temporary Financial Hardship: Families experiencing short-term financial difficulties.
- Grandparent Carers: Grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren.
- Transition to Work: Families transitioning from income support to employment.
- Child Wellbeing: Children at risk of serious abuse or neglect.
Eligibility for ACCS depends on the family’s situation and requires additional documentation.
4. How to Apply
Child Care Subsidy
To apply for the Child Care Subsidy:
- Create or log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Complete the Child Care Subsidy claim.
- Provide necessary documentation, such as income details and activity statements.
- Submit the claim and await confirmation.
It is recommended to apply at least three months before your child starts care to ensure timely processing.
Start Strong Funding
Families do not need to apply separately for Start Strong funding. Eligible services automatically receive the funding, which is then passed on to families as fee relief. However, it is advisable to confirm with your chosen service provider that they participate in the Start Strong program.
5. Childcare Services in Ashfield
Ashfield offers a variety of approved childcare and preschool services that participate in these subsidy programs. Families can explore local options through platforms like Care for Kids, which lists 22 providers for childcare in Ashfield with current vacancies.
Conclusion
Families in Ashfield have access to substantial government subsidies to assist with the cost of childcare and preschool services. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes for the Child Care Subsidy and Start Strong funding, families can significantly reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. It is advisable to consult with local service providers and government resources to ensure you are receiving all the support available to you.
