More Access to Early Learning for Floreat Families. 

City of stirling CCs.

From January 2026, Australian families will be guaranteed access to at least 72 hours of subsidised early childhood education and care per fortnight— that's three days per week. 


Known as the Three Day Guarantee, this reform replaces the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Activity Test and makes it easier for more children to access consistent, high-quality childcare, regardless of parents’ work or study hours. 


At Play’s Kool Early Learning Floreat, we welcome this change and the increased access it provides for families across Floreat and the City of Stirling. 


Child reading a children's book together, focused on illustrations of a fox at Play's Kool Floreat Childcare Centre.

What Is the Three-Day Guarantee in Childcare?  

  • How it affects Floreat families.

    The Three Day Guarantee ensures families eligible for the Child Care Subsidy receive a minimum level of subsidised care without needing to meet work or study requirements. From January 2026.

    • Families will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised childcare per fortnight.
    • The CCS Activity Test will no longer apply to the first 72 hours.
    • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families will receive 100 subsidised hours per fortnight.
    • Childcare remains subsidised, not free, with subsidy levels based on household income (up to 95%) 
    • Some families may still receive more than 72 hours, depending on eligibility for additional subsidies.

    This change helps ensure children in Floreat, City of Stirling, can access regular, high-quality early learning. 

  • 72 hours of subsidised childcare.

    What does 72 hours of subsidised care look like for Floreat families. For most families, 72 hours equates to approximately three standard days of care per week. 


    At Play’s Kool Early Learning Floreat, families may be able to: 

    • Spread hours across shorter or flexible sessions.
    • Increase consistency in weekly attendance.
    • Adjust bookings to better suit family routines.
    • Reduce out-of-pocket costs by aligning session lengths with subsidy entitlements. 

    Availability varies, so families seeking childcare in Floreat or surrounding suburbs are encouraged to speak with our team to explore suitable options. 

  • Why the Three Day Guarantee matters for children in Floreat.

    Regular attendance in a quality early learning environment plays a vital role in a child’s development. Consistent early learning supports:

    • Language and communication development.
    • Social skills and emotional regulation.
    • Confidence and independence.
    • School readiness and long-term wellbeing.

    Previously, the CCS Activity Test limited access for families working casually, studying part-time, or transitioning back to work. The Three Day Guarantee removes these barriers, placing children’s learning and development first.

  • Planning childcare in Floreat for 2026.

    With these changes coming into effect, families may consider: 

    • Adding an extra day of care.
    • Adjusting session lengths.
    • Moving to more consistent weekly bookings.
    • Securing places early due to increased demand.

    If your childcare needs may change in 2026, the team at Play’s Kool Early Learning Floreat can help you plan ahead.

Three Day Guarantee Childcare FAQs. 

Who is eligible for the Three Day Guarantee?


All families eligible for CCS receive guaranteed minimum of 72 hours (3 days) of subsidised care per fortnight.

When does the Three Day Guarantee start?


The changes apply from 5 January 2026, under the Early Childhood Education and Care (Three Day Guarantee) legislation.

Is childcare free under the Three Day Guarantee? 


No. Childcare remains subsidised, not free. Subsidy levels are income-tested and may be up to 95%. 

Who receives 100 hours of subsidised care?


Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, along with families eligible for additional subsidies or exemptions. 

Do families need to reapply for ccs?


No. Existing CCS arrangements will automatically transition to the new system.

Have another question?


Whether you're just exploring Play's Kool or already a part of our family, feel free to ask us anything. 

Early Learning at Play’s Kool Early Learning Floreat.   

At Play’s Kool Early Learning Floreat, our programs support children to grow, learn and thrive through play-based learning in a warm, inclusive environment. Our approach focuses on: 

  • Building strong early literacy and numeracy foundations.
  • Supporting social and emotional development.
  • Encouraging curiosity, creativity and independence.
  • Preparing children for a confident transition to school.


Families looking for childcare in Floreat or the City of Stirling can feel confident their child’s early learning journey is supported at Play’s Kool. 

Aerial view of a white sand beach, turquoise water, and a stone jetty; buildings and greenery in the background.

"The entire team at Play’s Kool have been fantastic from the moment we walked in the door with our baby girl.


Margot and all of the educators are incredibly attentive, warm and friendly. Our little girl has progressed through the three rooms and loves the structure and routine that the centre brings."

 

Timothy Garvey

Talk to Play’s Kool Early Learning.  

Understanding changes to childcare subsidies can feel overwhelming. you don’t have to navigate them alone.


To discuss how the Three Day Guarantee and CCS changes may affect your child’s enrolment or bookings for 2026, contact Play’s Kool Early Learning Floreat or book a tour to learn more about our programs and availability.