CCS & the 3 Day Guarantee: Clear Answers for Kids Academy Families in 2026

Over the past few weeks, many Kids Academy families have been asking about the upcoming Child Care Subsidy (CCS) changes, especially the new 3 Day Guarantee starting in January 2026.

If you’ve been wondering what this means for your fees, your routine or your child’s enrolment, you’re not alone. These changes are big, and it’s completely normal to want simple, honest guidance.

This easy-to-read guide answers the most common questions Kids Academy families are asking right now.

1. Do I need to apply for the 3 Day Guarantee?

Most families don’t need to do anything special. If you’re currently eligible for CCS, Services Australia will apply the 3 Day Guarantee automatically.

There is one important step:

Confirm your family income for the 2024-25 financial year when Services Australia requests it.

This keeps your CCS flowing smoothly and prevents your subsidy from pausing.

If you need help checking this, your Centre Manager or the Family Support Team can talk you through it.

2. What if my child already attends 3, 4 or 5 days?

Nothing changes for you in a negative way - your CCS won’t decrease.

The biggest benefit of the 3 Day Guarantee for families already attending multiple days is stability. If your work or study hours vary or reduce, you won’t lose access to three subsidised days.

Your child keeps the same routine and the same Kids Academy learning experience they love.

3. Can my child attend more than 3 days?

Yes, absolutely.

The 3 Day Guarantee isn’t a limit. It simply ensures all CCS-eligible families receive a minimum of 72 subsidised hours per fortnight.

Any extra days you choose will continue to be subsidised as usual, based on your CCS percentage.

If you rely on full-time care or 4-5 days per week, nothing changes.

4. Will this make childcare more affordable for us?

For some families, yes, especially if you’ve previously only been eligible for one subsidised day per week.

For families already attending multiple days, the benefit is peace of mind:

  • fewer surprises
  • more consistent support
  • less stress if your activity test hours change

If you’d like to understand what this might look like for your family specifically, your Centre Manager can give you a personalised estimate.

5. Should we secure our days for 2026 now?

If you’re thinking about increasing or changing days, it’s a good idea to start that conversation sooner rather than later.

January is our busiest time of year, and with more families becoming eligible for subsidised days, demand is expected to rise.

Even a quick chat like: “We’re considering adding a day next year,” helps us plan and gives you the best chance of securing the routine that works for your family.

Baby and toddler rooms fill quickly, so early conversations really do help.

Quick Check: Will the 3 Day Guarantee Help My Family?

You may benefit if:

  • You currently receive only one subsidised day
  • You want to increase days in 2026
  • Your work or study hours often change
  • You’re enrolling for the first time next year
  • You’d like your child to have a more consistent routine

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to talk through your options.

Why This Matters for Children

We know families usually focus on fees, but for children, the impact is emotional and developmental.

More consistent days mean:

  • strong friendships
  • smoother drop-offs
  • predictable routines
  • richer learning experiences
  • more confidence in social settings

At Kids Academy, every extra day is another opportunity for your child to learn, grow and feel secure.

What Your Child Will Experience at Kids Academy

Whether your child attends 1 day or 5, they’ll enjoy:

A welcoming, family-focused environment

Warm, nurturing educators who know your child well.

Fresh, healthy meals cooked onsite

Nutritious meals and snacks included in your daily fee.

Tailored curriculum programs

Part of the Affinity Lifelong Learning Curriculum, built for curious, capable learners.

Safety and high-quality care

We exceed national requirements with strong safety, compliance and quality support.

Meaningful play and learning

Outdoor play, sensory experiences, art, storytelling, music and calm rest periods, all designed to help your child thrive.

We’re Here to Make This Simple

If you have questions about CCS, the 3 Day Guarantee or your 2026 booking pattern, you don’t need to figure it out alone.
We’re here to support your family every step of the way.

Call our Family Support Team on 1800 244 532

Find your nearest Kids Academy centre and book a tour

You’re doing your best for your child, and we’re here to help make childcare easier, clearer and more reassuring.