Everything Australian families need to know about the new 3 Day Guarantee and more affordable childcare in 2026

A brighter future for families is on the way. Starting 5 January 2026, the child care subsidy 2026 changes will introduce the new 3 Day Guarantee, giving CCS eligible families access to three full days (36 hours) of subsidised childcare per week – no matter how many hours you work or study.

At Little Scholars, we know how important affordable, flexible care is for families, and we’re here to help you understand what these changes mean for you. 

What Is the 3 Day Guarantee?

The 3 Day Guarantee is part of upcoming changes to the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). It removes the strict work and study requirements previously tied to accessing subsidised hours of care according to the Department of Education.

Here’s what families can expect from 2026: 

  • No minimum activity hours required to access three days of subsidised care per week 
  • Up to 100 subsidised hours per fortnight for families who meet the activity test 
  • 100 hours guaranteed for families caring for First Nations children 

This means more affordable care, more flexibility, and more opportunities for your child to thrive in early learning.

Not sure how much Child Care Subsidy you might be entitled to? Use our online Child Care Subsidy Calculator 

Why the CCS Changes Matter for Families?

For many families, these changes will mean thousands of dollars in savings each year. But beyond the financial relief, it means every child has the opportunity to access quality early education – the foundation for lifelong learning, confidence, and wellbeing. 

Grandparents And Granddaughters Enjoying Learning At Little Scholars

Why Choose Little Scholars for Your Child’s Care?

With your three guaranteed days of subsidised care, your child will experience the very best in early education across our purpose-built campuses.

Nature play and outdoor learning

Children connect with the natural world through exploration and play.

Extra-curricular programs for every interest

Bush, Beach, and Pram-kinder programs, music, dance, sport, soccer, swimming, gardening and more.

University-qualified educators & kindergarten program

Experienced teachers deliver our nationally recognised Kindergarten program.

Innovative learning with STEM and WonderNest Virtual Reality

At Little Scholars, children engage with STEM learning (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) through hands-on, play-based experiences. Alongside our brand-new, Australian-first, WonderNest Virtual Reality program, opening new worlds of discovery and learning for kindergarten children in 2026.

A warm, family-first environment

Every child is more than just a number, they are part of our family. We provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment where children feel valued, celebrated, and encouraged to be themselves.

Our educators take the time to understand each child’s unique personality, interests, and learning style. This personalised approach to childcare ensures that every child feels a sense of belonging while developing confidence and independence.

Families choose Little Scholars because we combine high-quality early learning programs with a genuine family-first philosophy. From the moment you step into our campuses, you’ll see children thriving in a space that feels like home – where safety, wellbeing, and happiness come first.

Enrolments for 2026 Are Now Open

With the 3 Day Guarantee set to launch in 2026, we anticipate an incredible level of interest and demand across our campuses. If you are a current family and your current CCS entitlement is less than 72 hours per fortnight, please speak with your Campus Manager to learn more about the 3 Day Guarantee and how to optimise your Child Care Subsidy. 
 
If  you are looking to enrol your child, you can book a tour at your local Little Scholars Campus or chat with our enrolments team on 1300 896 139 to see how your family could benefit from the CCS changes.  

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Come and see the Little Scholars difference

Let us hold your hand and help looking for a child care centre. Leave your details with us and we’ll be in contact to arrange a time for a ‘Campus Tour’ and we will answer any questions you might have!

Come and see the Little Scholars difference

Let us hold your hand and help looking for a child care centre. Leave your details with us and we’ll be in contact to arrange a time for a ‘Campus Tour’ and we will answer any questions you might have!