Starting in January 2026, Australian families will benefit from a new childcare policy called the 3 Day Guarantee. At Young Academics Early Learning Centres, we know families have questions about what this means and how it will support their access to high-quality childcare.
What Is the 3 Day Guarantee?
The 3 Day Guarantee is part of the Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy (CCS) reforms. It ensures that all CCS-eligible children will have access to a minimum of 72 hours of subsidised early childhood education and care per fortnight, that’s the equivalent of three days per week.
This policy is designed to give families greater certainty, reduce financial barriers, and support children’s consistent participation in early learning.
Why Is the 3 Day Guarantee Important?
- Consistency for children: Attending childcare regularly helps children feel secure, build friendships, and engage in learning routines.
- Support for families: Parents and carers can better balance work, study, and family commitments knowing their child has guaranteed care.
- Equity in access: The policy ensures that all children, regardless of background, can benefit from at least three days of early education every week.
How Will It Work?
From 5 January 2026, eligible families will automatically be entitled to at least 72 hours of subsidised childcare per fortnight. This applies across approved early childhood education and care services, including Young Academics centres across NSW.
Families may still choose to book additional days, but the subsidy guarantees access to three days, helping to make care more affordable and predictable.
What Does It Mean for Children?
Research consistently shows that regular attendance in quality early learning before school age supports better outcomes, in literacy, numeracy, social skills, and overall development. With the 3 Day Guarantee, more children will experience these benefits through:
- Building positive relationships with educators and peers
- Developing confidence and independence
- Engaging in play-based learning experiences every week
Young Academics and the 3 Day Guarantee
At Young Academics, we welcome the introduction of the 3 Day Guarantee as it aligns with our mission to provide every child with access to safe, inspiring, and high-quality education and care.
Our centres are committed to supporting parents through this transition, ensuring your child receives the best possible start in life.
If you’d like to learn more about how the 3 Day Guarantee works at your local Young Academics centre, speak with our team today.
Sources:
- Department of Education, Australian Government. 3 Day Guarantee – Child Care Subsidy (CCS). Retrieved from the Department of Education website. Department of Education
- Services Australia. Changes to the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) activity test. Retrieved from the Services Australia website.
- Parliament of Australia. Bills Digest No. 47, 2024-25: Early Childhood Education and Care (Three Day Guarantee) Bill 2025. Prepared by Michael Klapdor, Parliament of Australia.
