From 5 January 2026, the activity test was replaced with the 3 Day Guarantee, meaning every CCS-eligible family now receives at least 72 hours of subsidised early learning every fortnight. No hurdles. Just more time to learn, connect and thrive.
What’s Changed
What is the 3 Day Guarantee?
From 5 January 2026, the Australian Government replaced the old CCS activity test with the 3 Day Guarantee. Every CCS-eligible family is now entitled to a minimum of 72 hours of subsidised early learning per fortnight — regardless of work or study hours. That barrier is gone.
Every eligible family gets at least 72 hours per fortnight, per child automatically
Already receiving CCS? No action needed – changes were applied automatically from 5 Jan 2026
First Nations families are entitled to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight
Your CCS percentage and income eligibility remain unchanged – you’ll still pay a gap fee based on your subsidy rate
72
Hours Per Fortnight
Guaranteed for every CCS-eligible family in Australia
100
Hours
For First Nations Families
100
Hours
For 48+ Hour Recognised Participation per fortnight
Your Entitlements
Entitled to More Than 72 Hours?
The 3 Day Guarantee is the minimum, but some families are entitled to more. Your hours are based on recognised participation, and if you have a partner, the lower of your two levels applies.
Family Situation
Subsidised hours per fortnight (per child)
All CCS-eligible families (regardless of participation)
72 Hours
Both parents/carers complete more than 48 hrs of recognised participation* per fortnight
100 Hours
First Nations children
100 Hours
*Types of recognised participation:
Paid work | Self-employed work | Volunteering | Studying (approved course) | Working in family business | Actively job seeking
Extra Support
Additional Child Care Subsidy
On top of standard CCS, some families may also be eligible for the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) a top-up payment for those who need extra support.
Child Wellbeing
For children who are vulnerable or at risk, providing additional support to keep them safe and connected.
Grandparents
For grandparents who are the primary carer of their grandchild and receiving an income support payment.
Temporary Financial Hardship
For families experiencing a significant and sudden change in financial circumstances.
Transition to Work
For families moving from income support payments into employment, self-employment or study.
Our Enrolments Team can help calculate your exact out-of-pocket based on your CCS rate and their daily fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 3 Day Guarantee mean free childcare?
No, but it does guarantee 72 subsidised hours every fortnight for eligible families, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs. You’ll still pay a gap fee based on your CCS percentage and your centre’s daily rate.
Do I need to do anything if I'm already getting CCS?
No. If you were already receiving CCS, the change was applied automatically to your account from 5 January 2026. No additional information was required.
Can I access 100 hours of subsidised care?
Yes, if both you and your partner each complete more than 48 hours of recognised participation (e.g. work or study) per fortnight, you may be entitled to 100 hours. Families caring for First Nations children are also entitled to 100 hours per fortnight for that child.
Is every family eligible for the 3 Day Guarantee?
You need to first be eligible for CCS and have a child under school age. Families with a combined annual income above $535,279 are not eligible for CCS.
What if I'm not yet receiving CCS?
You’ll need to make a claim via MyGov/Centrelink. We recommend starting this process as soon as possible as it can take 4–6 weeks to be finalised, and you may be charged full fees until your claim is approved.
