CCS activity test changes to support greater access from January 2026

From January 2026, all Child Care Subsidy (CCS) eligible families will be guaranteed access to at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, as part of a federal reform known as the 3 Day Guarantee.

The upcoming changes to the CCS activity test, effective from 5 January 2026, are designed to improve access to early childhood education and care (ECEC) for families across Australia, particularly those experiencing barriers to participation.

Under the new arrangements, all families who meet basic CCS eligibility requirements will receive a minimum of 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, regardless of their activity level. The initiative aims to remove administrative and financial barriers for families who may not meet the existing activity test thresholds.

Families may still be eligible for up to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight if:

• each parent or carer undertakes more than 48 hours of recognised activity every fortnight, or
• they have a valid exemption in place.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will continue to be eligible for 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, regardless of their family’s activity levels.

While the subsidy amount increases access to care, families will still be required to pay a gap fee or out-of-pocket cost to their service provider, consistent with current CCS arrangements.

The changes are expected to increase participation in early learning, particularly for children in low-income, under-employed, or otherwise vulnerable family contexts.

More information about the CCS activity test changes is available via Services Australia.