3 Day Guarantee for early childhood education
From January 2026, the Australian Government is introducing the 3 Day Guarantee, ensuring every child can access at least three days of subsidised childcare each fortnight. Learn what it means for your family, who is eligible, and how to claim.
What is the 3 Day Guarantee?
The 3 Day Guarantee is a new initiative that removes the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test. From January 2026, all families with children aged 0 to 5 are eligible for at least 72 hours per fornight (3 days per week) of subsidised childcare, no matter your work, salary or study situation. Families who meet specific criteria, or who care for a First Nations child, can access up to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight.
Discover more about the 3 Day Guarantee
Why has the Government introduced the 3 Day Guarantee?
- Provides universal access to childcare
- Supports families with certainty and cost-of-living relief
- Helps more children be school-ready, particularly those who previously had limited access to childcare.
Who is eligble for the 3 Day Guarantee?
There are some exceptions:
- Families with a First Nations child are entitled to 100 hours per fortnight.
- Families earning $533,280+ per year (as of 2024–25) are not eligible, consistent with current CCS rules.
How does the 3 Day Guarantee work?
The 3 Day Guarantee replaces the CCS activity test, but CCS still applies to provide financial support for eligible families beyond the guaranteed 3 days. Families who previously received CCS may see significant savings under the new guarantee.
Enrol
Enrol your child at your nearest Green Leaves Early Learning, or if already attending, speak with your Centre team
Register
Your Centre will register your child for the 3 Day Guarantee
Benefit
You'll automatically receive at least 72 hours of subsided care per fortnight
An example of the 3-Day Guarantee
Sarah and Alex earn $90,000 combined. Their child attends 3 days per week (36 hours). Previously, they were eligible for 36 hours per fortnight, but under the 3 Day Guarantee, they now receive 72 hours per fortnight, saving $230 per week ($11,400 per year).
Why early childhood education matters
Choosing high-quality early childhood education is about more than just childcare... It’s a meaningful investment in your child’s future. At Green Leaves Early Learning, we provide education that grows with your child, helping every child thrive and reach their full potential. Read on to discover the Green Leaves Difference:
School readiness
Early learning helps children develop the social, emotional, and cognitive skills they need to thrive at school.
Social connections
Children build friendships and social skills in a safe, supportive environment.
Health and wellbeing
From nutritious meals to physical activity and rest routines, we provide balanced environments that supports your child’s development.
Confidence and independence
Early learning helps children develop the social, emotional, and cognitive skills they need to thrive at school.
Tailored learning journeys
Age-appropriate learning journeys that spark curiosity and creativity, from hands-on experiments to art, music, and imaginative play.
Peace of mind for families
Families can focus on work, study, or personal time, knowing their child is in the care of trained, nurturing and passionate Educators.
New to Green Leaves? Find your nearest Centre
Green Leaves Early Learning is a national provider of premium early education and care for children aged six weeks to six years. With state-of-the-art learning environments, nutritious meals prepared daily by in-house chefs, and a warm, welcoming community, we’re here to support your child’s development, and your family’s wellbeing, every step of the way.
