Thinking of moving to Australia with children? Our guide covers everything you need to know about childcare costs in Australia.
Starting a new life Down Under in Australia is an exciting adventure, especially for families moving from the UK with young children. One of the most important things to plan for is the childcare costs in Australia, which can vary widely depending on location and type of care. Demand for childcare services is high, especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, so planning ahead is crucial to securing a place.
In this practical guide to the Australian childcare system, we’ll:
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Walk you through your various childcare options,
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Give you an idea of the average childcare costs in Australia, and
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Explain what childcare subsidies and government support may be available.
Because ultimately – when heading Down Under, understanding how the Australian childcare system works will help make your move smoother and a whole lot less stressful. For both you and your children!
UK Childcare vs. Australian Childcare
One of the first things you’ll notice when moving to Australia with children is that Australia’s childcare system has some key differences to the UK system. Formal schooling in Oz for example starts later at age 5 or 6 (depending on the state). There are also variations around the first few years of schooling and what they’re called in each state.
In the UK, your child won’t start funded nursery or preschool until age 3 or 4. At age 4 or 5, they enter Reception (England and Wales) or Primary 1 (Scotland and Northern Ireland), followed by Year 1 / Primary 2 and so on. Although childcare services are available for children younger than 3, these are usually arranged and paid for privately by families.
Officially funded childcare in Australia, however, can start as early as six weeks old and continues until formal schooling starts at age 5 or 6. Kindergarten/preschool (for ages 4 or 5) is highly recommended but not compulsory, and may be run either as a standalone centre or as part of a Long Day Care facility. Children can enter their first official school year without any previous education but this is not encouraged or desirable.
Australia’s Early Education System
For uninitiated Brits, Australia’s early education system might appear a bit confusing at first because there is some overlap in nomenclature between states. The following table should help simplify things:
| State/Territory | Year Before School (4/5 Years) | First Year of Formal Schooling (5/6 years) |
| New South Wales | Preschool | Kindergarten |
| Victoria | Kindergarten | Preparatory (Prep) |
| Queensland | Kindergarten | Preparatory (Prep) |
| Western Australia | Kindergarten | Pre-Primary |
| South Australia | Preschool (or Kindergarten) | Reception |
| Tasmania | Kindergarten | Preparatory (Prep) |
| ACT | Preschool | Kindergarten |
| Northern Territory | Preschool | Transition |
The year before formal schooling is recommended but not compulsory and is offered by many childcare services. Government funding and availability also differs from the UK, and we’ll walk you through your options further down.
1. Types of Childcare in Australia
Australia has a range of childcare services for families relocating from overseas. However, waiting lists are often long, especially in the major urban centres. Nevertheless, it is important to establish a childcare routine as soon as possible after you arrive. This not only benefits you as working parents but also helps your children settle into their new environment. They can develop appropriate social skills for their new environment and prepare for Australia’s school system.
Long Day Care (Childcare Centres)
Long Day Care or Childcare Centres are common in cities and large towns. Most cater for infants as young as 6 weeks right up to school age (5 or 6, depending on the state). They typically operate from 7am to 6pm weekdays, so are a popular choice for working parents in Australia (hence the long waiting lists!).
These facilities are managed by qualified early childhood educators and aim to provide a predictable daily routine, nutritious meals, and regular progress updates. They use the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) (the UK uses the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)). This is a play-based programme, designed to support early development through play and structured learning activities.
Family Day Care
If you prefer a more personalised experience. Family Day Care could be a good option, as it is more of a one-on-one home-based childcare. Licensed family day carers can look after up to 4 pre school aged children in their (carer’s) own home. Like childcare centres, family day carers are also registered educators and provide EYLF learning.
Family day care hours are typically more flexible than childcare centres, and some offer care outside standard working hours (weekends and evenings).
Family Day Care fees range from $10–$15 an hour.
Preschools and Kindergartens
If your child is 4 – 5 years old, they only have a year or two before they reach the official school starting age. In this case, you can opt for a separate preschool or kindergarten in Australia.
Attending preschool or kindergarten is not compulsory but nevertheless, it is highly recommended. These centres focus on early education and are designed to help kids this age prepare socially and academically for the transition to school.
Preschools and kindergartens are often incorporated into primary schools, or located very close to them. They operate during formal school terms, and usually between 9am and 3pm.
Australia has public (government-funded) and private preschools and kindergartens. Public facilities are free or subsidised for eligible children. Private ones may charge around $50 a day.
Occasional Care
If your new job in Oz involves shift work or changing schedules, consider Occasional Care as it offers flexible childcare. These programmes let you book childcare on an “as required” basis. Many are run by councils or community centres, and are usually affordable and easy to arrange. However, overall availability may be limited depending on your area. Hours will also vary depending on the provider.
Nannies and Au Pairs
Nannies and au pairs provide in-home childcare and are a good option if you’d like childcare at home. They are a flexible and convenient option as they can work in with your arrangements.
Like the UK, Australian nannies are professional childcare workers with formal qualifications. They’re usually paid an hourly wage.
An au pair typically receives room, board, and a small allowance (varies by arrangement) in return for taking care of your children. They are also often young travellers working casual jobs to pay their way so be sure to check visa and employment regulations.
Nannies and au pairs are more common in expatriate families and in larger cities.
Before and After School Care (OSHC)
Once your child, or children, start school, you can also access before and after-school care programmes, also known as Out of School Hours Care (OSHC). These are generally attached to primary schools, and provide supervision, snacks, and activities. They typically operate between 7am – 9am and 3pm – 6pm on school days.
2. Childcare Costs in Australia (2025)
Childcare costs in Australia will vary depending on the type of service you want, where you live, and how many hours of care you need. Prices may seem steep compared to the UK but most families in Australia are eligible for some level of Child Care Subsidy (CCS) support. Check your visa conditions, though, because conditions do apply.
Also, how much you’re eligible for will depend on your income, the type of care required, and the activity levels, i.e. excursions. NB: The CCS covers a percentage of either your actual hourly fee or the hourly cap (whichever is lower), based on the type of care.
The following breakdown of childcare fees will give you a good overview of what to expect. (All fees are in AUD).
Long Day Care
Average Cost: $100 – $130 a day (national average). However, $147 – $150 a day is common in many metro childcare centres.
- Major Cities: $150 – $200+ a day
- Regional Centres: $70 – $110 a day
Government CCS Hourly Rate Cap: indexed July 1st each year (2024/25 cap is $13.73 per hour)
Family Day Care
Average Cost: $12.70 – $16.80/hour ($70 – $100 a day full-time)
Government CCS Hourly Rate Cap: indexed July 1st each year (2024/25 cap is $ 12.72 per hour)
Preschool/Kindergarten
Average Cost: $45 – $80 a day (if fees apply).
Costs vary widely depending on the state or territory and the programme structure – whether it’s standalone or run within a Long Day Care centre.
Many of these programmes receive substantial state government funding, meaning families often pay $4, or less, per hour after subsidies, and some pay no fees at all.
Occasional Care
Average Cost: $8 – $15/hour (varies by provider/location). Subsidised rates can be as low as $1.50 – $5.00 per session for concession holders. However, access to this type of care is very limited, particularly outside major metropolitan centres.
Nannies and Au Pairs
Nannies:
- $30 – $40/hour (live-out, average)
- $25 – $55+/hour (varies by experience/duties)
- $1,600 – $2,500/week (full-time/live-in)
Au Pairs:
Weekly allowance ranges from $180 – $300 per week (or $8–$10 per hour) depending on experience, expected duties, and location. Room and board (private bedroom and all meals) are provided in addition to the allowance.
Before & After School Care
- Before School: $15 – $30/session
- After School: $25 – $45/session
Additional Expenses (All Types)
In addition to the above fees, other charges may include:
- Enrolment fees: $50 – $200 (one-time, non-refundable)
- Bond/deposit: 1 – 2 weeks’ fees (refundable)
- Holding/absentee fees: Fees may apply even if absent
- Late pick-up fees: $1 – $2/minute
- Excursions/incursions: $10 – $30/event
- Materials/uniforms: For preschool/kindergarten, may include craft supplies, hats, or optional uniforms
- Food and nappies (some centres provide them, others don’t)
- For nannies, possible extra costs for petrol, activities, or food
Always ask for a full fee schedule up front so you know exactly what is and isn’t included in the daily or weekly fees.
3. Government Support and Subsidies
Australia’s childcare system is heavily subsidised by both the Federal and State Governments, which can make a significant difference to the cost of childcare in Australia for many families. These subsidies are designed to make early education accessible for all children and to support working families by reducing out-of-pocket childcare expenses. Understanding which support schemes you may be eligible for, how they work, and how to apply is crucial to making informed financial decisions as you settle into your new life in Australia.
Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
This scheme is run by the Federal Government and is designed to help reduce your childcare costs. It is paid directly to your provider, which then lowers the fees you pay. CCS eligibility requires you or your partner to be living in Australia on the day you lodge your claim, and hold one of the following:
- Australian citizenship
- A permanent visa
- A Special Category visa
- Certain temporary visas (such as partner provisional or temporary protection visas)
Other eligibility requirements:
- Your child must be 13 years or younger, and be attending primary school
- Your childcare service provider must be Australian government-approved, and
- Your family must meet current immunisation requirements – Australia has a strict “No Jab No Pay” policy.
How much subsidy you’ll receive will depend on your:
- Household income
- Hours (you and your partner) spend working, studying, or volunteering
- Type of childcare used – some types receive a higher subsidy than others
As a guide: if your combined income is less than $80,000 AUD a year, you may get up to 90% of your childcare fees covered. A tapering scale applies to incomes above this threshold up to $530,000. If your income is over that upper threshold, you’re not eligible for the CCS.
If you have more than one child in childcare, you may also be eligible for a higher subsidy rate.
How to Apply
To apply for the CCS:
- Create or log into your myGov account
- Link your account to Centrelink
- Provide information about your family income and your activities (e.g., work hours)
- Your subsidy will then be applied automatically to your childcare bills
Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
The FTB is another Federal Government benefit that helps ease the cost of raising children in Australia. This is a separate payment to the CCS; many families are eligible for both.
FTB eligibility requirements:
You and your child or children must be living in Australia when you claim, and you must have:
- Australian citizenship, or
- A permanent visa, or
- A Special Category visa (usually for New Zealanders), or
- An eligible temporary visa (partner, provisional, or temporary protection)
There are 2 parts to the FTB:
- Part A: Paid per child based on the child’s age and your family income. Usually subject to a 1-year waiting period after becoming an Australian resident. Your child or children must also meet immunisation requirements.
- Part B: For single parents or families where one parent earns a lot more than the other. No waiting period so you can claim as soon you’re eligible.
If you’re eligible, you can receive both Part A and Part B payments. How much depends on your family’s situation and income.
Current (2024/2025 FY) FTB amounts are:
Part A:
- Up to $191.24 per fortnight per child (0–12 years)
- Up to $248.78 per fortnight per child (13–19 years)
Part B:
- Up to $183.68 per fortnight (for a child under 5)
- Up to $128.74 per fortnight (for a child 5–18)
How to Apply
To apply for the Family Benefits Tax:
- Create or log into your myGov account
- Link your account to Centrelink
- Provide information about your family (including immunisation details), family income and your activities (e.g., work hours)
- If you’re eligible, payments can be made fortnightly or as a lump sum at the end of the financial year.
State-Based Childcare Funding
All states and territories offer state-funded childcare and preschool/kindergarten programmes for children between 3 and 5 years, which reduces the cost of childcare in Australia. The programmes ensure ALL children living in the state, regardless of citizenship status, have access to affordable or free early learning just before starting primary school.
For more information about these programmes, visit the relevant Federal and State Government sites:
National
Australian Government Department of Education
https://www.education.gov.au
State and Territory
New South Wales (NSW):
NSW Department of Education
https://education.nsw.gov.au
Victoria (VIC):
Department of Education, Victoria
https://www.vic.gov.au/education
https://www.vic.gov.au/department-education
Queensland (QLD):
Queensland Department of Education
https://education.qld.gov.au
South Australia (SA):
Department for Education, South Australia
https://www.education.sa.gov.au
Western Australia (WA):
Department of Education, Western Australia
https://www.education.wa.edu.au
Tasmania (TAS):
Department of Education, Tasmania
https://www.education.tas.gov.au
Australian Capital Territory (ACT):
ACT Education Directorate
https://www.education.act.gov.au
Northern Territory (NT):
Department of Education, Northern Territory
https://education.nt.gov.au
4. Finding and Choosing the Right Childcare
Choosing the right childcare service for your family and circumstances may seem onerous but ultimately, it will be worth your time and effort. Your kids will find it easier to assimilate into the Ozzie school system, and adapt to some of the changes happening in their young lives.
Where to Start
We’ve found several excellent tools to help you get started on your search for the right childcare services for your family:
- Starting Blocks: Government-run comparison site where you can view and compare childcare services in your area, or intended area. Compare fees, ratings, and more.
- Care for Kids: Private directory that provides reviews, availability, and estimated costs of childcare centres across Australia.
- KindiCare: Private platform for searching and comparing childcare centres, offering features like comparison tools, NQS ratings, fees, and estimated out-of-pocket costs with the Child Care Subsidy.
- Child Care Directory of Australia: Information directory for childcare services across Australian states and territories.
- The Private Schools Directory – Early Learning: Directory that focuses specifically on early learning options offered by independent schools.
- Raising Children Network: Parenting information resource including articles and advice on choosing childcare and early learning.
Also, check your local council website for information about council-operated childcare centres, local community play groups, and support networks. Most will have a section dedicated to these services, and links to local childcare directories and state government resources.
What to Look For in Your Childcare Service Provider
When comparing your options for childcare in Australia, consider (and check) things like:
- Licensing and accreditation under the National Quality Framework
- Educator qualifications
- Staff-to-child ratios
- Facilities and environment – is the home or facility safe, clean, and welcoming?
- Learning and play programmes – do the programmes and learning align with your values and what you want for your children?
- Operating hours and location – do these work with your daily routine? Remember – drop offs and pick-ups outside agreed upon times may incur fees and these can mount up.
Try and visit your shortlist of childcare centres in person. If you haven’t yet moved to Oz, see if you can do it virtually. Ask questions. Get a feel for the environment and atmosphere. Check online reviews and social media. Reputable centres are always happy to talk and answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Get Onto Waiting Lists Early
If you want your children settled into childcare as soon as possible after arriving in Australia, you’ll need to organise it, and get them onto waiting lists, well before you leave the UK. Knowing there are positions waiting for them when you arrive is one less thing to worry about. And will help them settle in faster.
5. Planning Ahead Before Your Move
Securing childcare in Australia can take time, especially in high-demand areas, so it’s essential to plan well before your departure. Taking a few key steps early will make the transition smoother for both you and your children.
- Start your research early. Shortlist childcare services and join waiting lists as soon as you know where you’ll be living. This will increase your odds of getting a place with the carer or service of your choice.
- Find out what documents you’ll need – birth certificates, immunisation records, visas – and get them organised early.
- Plan your childcare enrolment and start date around your move so you’re not left scrambling for cover during those crucial early weeks after you arrive
- Consider using a relocation service like PSS to coordinate your move with important timelines like school terms, planned holidays, or family events.
Being proactive will give you peace of mind and help your family settle into life in Australia with less stress and more confidence.
Helping Your Family Settle Into Life Down Under
Moving to Australia is an exciting journey. If you’ll need childcare services when you get there, knowing your options, what to budget for, what government support is available, and how to access it, makes planning much easier.
Start your research about childcare costs in Australia early. Use handy tools like Starting Blocks and Care for Kids to help you make the right choices and decisions, and access available support. These tools are there to help you secure the right childcare for your family.
Talk to us about your move Down Under. We can help with the removal process itself and steer you safely through the whole Customs process. Also, check out our very handy Family Relocation Checklist!
