Removal of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test - What families need to know

In a huge win for Queensland families, the Australian Government will remove the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test from January 2026. Families will now be guaranteed at least 72 hours of subsidised early childhood education and care (ECEC) per fortnight, regardless of their activity levels.

How does this benefit Queensland families?

• The removal of the Activity Test makes quality early education more accessible and affordable, removing barriers and reducing stress for families across Queensland.
• Ensures that children are school-ready and improves long-term developmental outcomes.
• Provides targeted cost-of-living relief to families during challenging economic times.
• Provides families with certainty around eligibility for subsidised ECEC.
• Families whose recognised activities were previously limited or capped, such as those working casually, studying, looking for work, or volunteering, are now eligible for 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.
• Stay-at-home parents who were previously ineligible are now eligible for 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.
• Creates a more equitable early learning system across Queensland communities.

What are Queensland families entitled to?

• Every family earning under $533,280 per year will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight, without needing to meet activity requirements.
• Families can still access 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight if they meet activity requirements or have a valid exemption.
• First Nations families, and families caring for First Nations children, will automatically receive access to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.
• Families earning over $533,280 in 2024-25 are not eligible for subsidised care – consistent with current settings.

Example of benefits

Sarah and Alex are a couple with one child accessing ECEC for 3 days (36 hours) per week. Their combined family income is $90,000 per annum. Sarah works full-time and Alex works 8 hours per week.

Previously, they received 36 hours of CCS per fortnight. From January 2026, they are automatically eligible for 72 hours per fortnight. This saves them $230 per week of care, or $11,400 per year. For different family income thresholds, the savings are:

At C&K, we look forward to opening our doors to new families, and seeing children attend for additional days in 2026! With 40 childcare centres across Queensland, we welcome children from six weeks to five years to learn, play, and thrive alongside our experienced teachers and educators.

Find your nearest C&K childcare centre, book a tour or begin an enrolment application ahead of time.

For more information, view the Fact Sheet - 3 Day Guarantee – Early Education - Department of Education, Australian Government