Question 1

What is the OSHC hourly rate cap for 2025-26?

Accepted Answer

The Child Care Subsidy hourly rate cap for outside school hours care (OSHC) is $12.81 per hour for 2025-26. CCS is calculated on the lower of your provider's hourly fee or this cap. Any amount your service charges above $12.81/hr is paid in full by the family — no subsidy covers the gap.

Question 2

Does the Child Care Subsidy apply to vacation care?

Accepted Answer

Yes, CCS applies to vacation care run by approved providers. Vacation care usually charges a flat daily fee, which is converted to an hourly equivalent for subsidy purposes (typically based on a 10-hour care day). The same $12.81/hr OSHC rate cap applies, so if the hourly equivalent exceeds the cap, you pay the gap.

Question 3

Can I claim CCS for multiple school-age children in OSHC?

Accepted Answer

Yes. CCS is calculated per child and applies to every child attending an approved OSHC or vacation care service. Families with more than one child in care aged 5 and under may also receive a higher subsidy rate for their second and subsequent child — but that higher rate does not apply to school-age children in OSHC.

Question 4

How much does OSHC cost per week on average in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Typical OSHC fees are around $10 to $15 per hour before subsidy, with each afternoon session running about 3 hours (3pm to 6pm). For a child attending 5 afternoons per week at $11/hr, gross weekly cost is around $165. After the Child Care Subsidy, most families pay between $20 and $80 per week out-of-pocket depending on their income.

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