CCS Checker AU — Calculate your real Child Care Subsidy (including the 3-day minimum rule)
Get a clear estimate of your CCS %, activity-test hours, and weekly out-of-pocket childcare costs for 2025–26. Independent tool — always confirm final entitlements with Services Australia.
What this calculator does differently
- Includes the 5 January 2026 3-day minimum (72 hours/fortnight) rule
- Estimates weekly out-of-pocket cost, not just subsidy %
- Supports multiple children, age bands, and fee/session structures
What You'll Need
- Family Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI)
- Activity hours per fortnight
- Childcare details: days, hours, fees
What You'll Get
- Free estimate: CCS %, activity-test hours, and weekly cost estimate.
- Family Impact Pack ($8.99): Compare scenarios side-by-side, model income changes, estimate full-year CCS differences, and EV novated lease CCS impact calculator.
5 January 2026 3-Day Minimum Rule
From 5 January 2026, eligible families are guaranteed a minimum of 72 subsidised hours per fortnight (3 days/week) even if activity hours are lower. This calculator includes the rule.
Learn how the 3-day minimum works →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
The Child Care Subsidy is a government payment that helps Australian families with the cost of approved childcare. The amount you receive depends on your family income, activity hours, and the type of care used.
How is my CCS percentage calculated?
Your CCS percentage is based on your combined family Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI). For 2025-26, families earning under $83,280 receive the maximum 90% subsidy. The percentage decreases as income increases.
What is the activity test?
The activity test determines how many hours of subsidised care you can access per fortnight based on your recognised activities like work, study, or volunteering. Depending on your hours, you may receive 36, 72, or 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.
What is the 3-day minimum (72-hour) rule?
From 5 January 2026, families who meet basic activity requirements are guaranteed a minimum of 72 subsidised hours per fortnight (equivalent to 3 days per week). This is designed to ensure families have enough access to childcare even if their activity hours are variable.
Is this calculator affiliated with Centrelink or the government?
No. CCS Checker AU is an independent estimation tool and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Services Australia, Centrelink, or the Australian Government. Always verify your entitlements through official channels.
What information do I need to use the calculator?
You'll need your combined family Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI), your activity hours per fortnight (work, study, etc.), and details about your childcare arrangements including fees and session lengths.
Important Disclaimer
This tool provides estimates only and is not affiliated with Services Australia, Centrelink, or the Australian Government. Always verify your actual entitlements through official channels at servicesaustralia.gov.au.
Built in Australia to help families understand Child Care Subsidy rules. Independent and not affiliated with Services Australia.
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