Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS): Who Qualifies and How It Works

The Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) provides a higher level of support than standard CCS for families facing difficult circumstances. In some cases it can cover up to 100% of childcare fees — up to the government hourly cap — and it bypasses some of the usual CCS activity test requirements.

ACCS doesn't stack on top of CCS. If you qualify, ACCS replaces your standard CCS rate with a higher one.

The Four Types of ACCS

There are four distinct types of ACCS, each targeting a different situation.

ACCS (Child Wellbeing)

For children who are at risk of serious abuse or neglect, this type of ACCS ensures access to a safe and supportive early learning environment regardless of the family's normal CCS entitlement.

• Covers up to 100% of fees (up to the hourly cap)
• The activity test does not apply — children can access care even if parents have no recognised activities
• Usually initiated by the childcare service, not the parent — providers can issue an initial 6-week certificate, then apply to Services Australia for a longer determination

If you are a parent in a difficult situation, speak to your childcare provider or a family support service. The provider can often start the process on your behalf.

ACCS (Grandparent)

Supports grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren. To qualify, grandparents generally must:

• Be the principal carer of the child
• Receive an eligible income support payment (such as Age Pension, Parenting Payment, or similar)
• Usually not have a partner sharing the caring role

ACCS (Grandparent) can cover up to 100% of fees up to the hourly cap, and entitles grandparents to up to 100 subsidised hours per fortnight. For more on how grandparents fit into the CCS system generally, see grandparents and CCS.

ACCS (Temporary Financial Hardship)

Designed for families experiencing a short-term financial crisis, such as:

• Sudden job loss or stand-down
• Serious illness or injury
• Family breakdown or domestic crisis
• Natural disaster

This type covers up to 100% of fees (up to the hourly cap) for up to 13 weeks. Services Australia may approve an extension if the hardship is ongoing.

Parents generally apply through Centrelink, and childcare providers can often help with paperwork. Evidence of the hardship circumstances is typically required.

ACCS (Transition to Work)

For families moving off income support and into employment. This type helps parents who are:

• Starting a new job
• Increasing their working hours
• Transitioning from Parenting Payment or JobSeeker into the workforce

ACCS (Transition to Work) covers around 95% of fees (up to the hourly cap) for up to 36 hours of care per fortnight, helping bridge the gap while a family adjusts to the financial demands of re-entering work.

How Much ACCS Covers

All types are subject to the government hourly rate cap. If your provider charges above the cap, you pay the gap fee regardless.

How to Apply

Important Things to Know

ACCS is generally temporary. Temporary Financial Hardship and Transition to Work support are time-limited. Child Wellbeing and Grandparent support can continue longer but require ongoing assessment.

Evidence is usually required. Services Australia may request documents confirming your circumstances — for example, a letter from an employer, a medical certificate, or a support worker's assessment.

Childcare providers are a good first contact. For Child Wellbeing and Hardship situations especially, providers are often experienced in navigating the ACCS process and can help you understand what's available.

ACCS replaces, not adds to, CCS. If you qualify for ACCS, your subsidy rate shifts to the ACCS rate. You don't receive both separately.

What If I Don't Qualify for ACCS?

Standard CCS is still available to most families and covers a meaningful share of fees at most income levels. Use the calculator below to estimate your regular CCS entitlement.

If you're facing financial pressure but don't qualify for ACCS, it's also worth reviewing your income estimate and withholding settings in myGov — see why CCS debts happen at balancing and withholding explained.

Key Takeaways

• ACCS provides higher subsidy rates than standard CCS for families in specific difficult circumstances.
• There are four types: Child Wellbeing, Grandparent, Temporary Financial Hardship, and Transition to Work.
• ACCS replaces your CCS rate — it does not stack on top of it.
• Support can cover up to 100% of fees (up to the hourly cap) depending on the type.
• Application routes vary by type — speak to your childcare provider or Centrelink to find out which applies to you.

FAQ

Can I receive ACCS and standard CCS at the same time?

No. ACCS replaces your standard CCS percentage with a higher rate. You can't receive both simultaneously for the same child.

Does the activity test apply for ACCS?

It depends on the type. ACCS (Child Wellbeing) waives the activity test entirely. ACCS (Grandparent) has its own hours entitlement. ACCS (Temporary Financial Hardship) and ACCS (Transition to Work) have specific hour limits rather than using the standard activity test framework.

How do I know if my child qualifies for ACCS (Child Wellbeing)?

This is usually assessed by your childcare provider in consultation with family support services or a child protection caseworker. If you're concerned about your child's safety or wellbeing, speak to your provider or contact Services Australia.

What counts as a temporary financial hardship?

Services Australia assesses this on a case-by-case basis. Common qualifying events include job loss, illness, domestic violence, separation, or natural disaster. You'll need to provide supporting documentation. Your childcare provider or a social worker can often help you gather what's needed.

How long does ACCS (Transition to Work) last?

It covers the period while you are transitioning into employment, typically up to 12 weeks in most circumstances. Contact Services Australia for the exact timeframe that applies to your situation.

This is general guidance only. ACCS eligibility and payment rates can change. Contact Services Australia on 136 150 or visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy for advice specific to your circumstances.