Childcare can be a big expense for families, and knowing how to tap into government help can make a huge difference.
The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) was updated in July 2025, bringing even more relief for Aussie families.
This guide gives Brisbane parents the lowdown on who’s eligible, how to apply, and how Piptree’s Subsidy Calculator makes it all a bit less stressful.
What is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
The CCS is designed to take some pressure off families by covering part of their childcare costs. The 2025 updates mean:
- Higher subsidies for families earning under $80,000.
- A sliding scale up to $530,000 income.
- No annual cap for families earning under $190,000.
It’s all aimed at making childcare more affordable for everyday Brisbane parents.
Who Can Get CCS in 2025/2026?
You might be eligible if you:
- Care for a child aged 13 or younger (who isn’t in secondary school).
- Live in Australia and meet residency requirements.
- Use an approved childcare provider like Piptree.
- Meet the activity test (this can include work, study, or volunteering).
You can check full details on the Services Australia CCS page.
How Do You Apply for CCS?
It’s pretty simple:
- Log in to myGov and go to Centrelink.
- Start a CCS claim with your income and activity details.
- Confirm your child’s enrollment with Piptree.
- Once approved, your subsidy goes straight to your centre to lower your fees.
Try Piptree’s Childcare Subsidy Calculator
Not sure how much you’ll get? The Piptree Subsidy Calculator gives you a quick estimate based on your family’s income and activity hours. It’s a handy tool to see what your out-of-pocket costs might look like.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Subsidy
- Update your income estimate regularly to avoid surprises.
- Track your activity hours to maximise your rate.
- Use your full eligible hours each fortnight if you can.
Why Brisbane Families Love Piptree
At Piptree, we know CCS can feel confusing, so we make it easier. Our team helps families:
- Understand their entitlements.
- See clear fee breakdowns after subsidies.
- Find enrollment options that fit their schedule and budget.
Conclusion
With the 2025/2026 CCS changes, there’s never been a better time to enrol in quality childcare.
Take advantage of the new rates and start planning for your child’s future.
Try Piptree’s Subsidy Calculator today and see how much you could save!
FAQs About Child Care Subsidies in Queensland
Q: How much is the Child Care Subsidy in 2025?
A: It depends on your household income and activity hours. Families earning under $80,000 may get up to 90% covered, while those earning up to $530,000 still receive some support.
Q: Can I apply for CCS before enrolling my child?
A: Yes, you can start your CCS claim through Centrelink before confirming your child’s place at a centre.
Q: Does Piptree help with CCS applications?
A: Absolutely. Our team can guide you through the process and provide fee estimates once CCS is applied.
Q: How often do I need to update my income with Centrelink?
A: It’s best to update your income estimate whenever there’s a change, like a new job or changed work hours.Q: Is the CCS applied directly to my account?
A: No, it’s sent directly to your childcare provider, reducing the fees you pay out-of-pocket.