CCS payment amounts explained. The numbers below are based on currently published figures for FY 18/19.
This is a general guide only. Use the Centrelink calculator for an estimate tailored to individual circumstances.
On completion of their CCS application to Centrelink a parent will receive a letter with their details if successful showing their entitlement. It will contain a section that should look like this.
This contains the information needed to use the calculator.
Based on combined family annual income. The maximum rate payable is 85%.
The number of hours of care the government will pay for each fortnight per child. Where there are 2 parents it is based on the parent doing the least amount of approved activities. Eg if 1 parent works full time and the other works part time it is based on the hours of the part time parent.
Note : Examples are based on standard working day of 7.8 hrs
Applies if approved activity hrs less than 8 hrs per fortnight. eg one or less day per fortnight or 1/2 day or less per week.
Applies if approved activity hrs between 8 hrs and 16 hrs per fortnight. eg 2 days per fortnight or 1 day per week.
Applies if approved activity hrs between 16 hrs and 48 hrs per fortnight. eg 3-6 days per fortnight or 1.5 - 3 days per week.
Applies if approved activity hrs more than 48 hrs per fortnight. eg 7 days per fortnight or 3.5 days per week.
Different maximum hourly caps apply depending on whether the child is attending Centre Based Care (Long Day Care and Occaisonal Care) , Outside School Hours Care (Before School , After School , Vacation Care) , Family Day Care or In Home Care.
Note : these are maximum rates payable , if the hourly rate of care is less than the maximum rate then the subsidy will be paided based on the actual hourly rate. (Session Rate / Session Hours)
The government will hold back 5% of Child Care Subidy that the parent would otherwise be entitled to as an offset for reconciliation when the parent submits their tax returns.
Sources :
https://www.education.gov.au/child-care-subsidy-combined-family-income-0