We appreciate that the employment and income of some families has recently changed, and we encourage all families to ensure that you are receiving all of the subsidies to which you are entitled, taking into consideration options such as the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) for Temporary Financial Hardship.
What is it?
Additional Child Care Subsidy (temporary financial hardship) is designed to provide short-term support to families who are experiencing significant financial stress due to exceptional circumstances beyond their control. This will help ensure continuity of care for the child and ensure that families are provided with support when they need it most.
How does it work?
Eligible families will receive a subsidy equal to the actual fee charged, up to 120% of the Child Care Subsidy hourly rate cap, for up to 100 hours per fortnight. This support will be provided for a maximum of 13 weeks per event in which during this time the family will not have to meet activity test requirements. In short, this means all Child Care Fees will be covered by Centrelink.
What documentation do I have to provide?
- independent documentation such as a letter from an employer (for loss of job) or from an independent professional
- a statutory declaration from the individual outlining the nature of the temporary hardship event
- a formal declaration of a natural disaster event where the families concerned would be eligible for disaster assistance
- medical or death certificates.
How do I apply?
All applications can be submitted through your MyGov Account as seen below:
1. Sign in to myGov and go to Centrelink.
2. Select My Family from the menu.
3. Select Child Care then Temporary Financial Hardship.
4. Select Yes to confirm that you have read and understood the criteria you must meet to get Additional Child Care Subsidy.
5. Answer all the questions. Each screen has information to help you complete the application. This includes how to submit your supporting documents and any other forms you need to complete.
6. Review and submit your application.
After you submit your claim online, you will get a receipt telling you the ID number of your application. This receipt will tell you what other documents you need to provide for Centrelink to assess your application.
Need more information about Child Care Subsidy?
Sunkids have developed a Child Care Subsidy info hub which contains all you need to know about the Child Care Subsidy. Access it by clicking here.
You can also find further information about CCS by visiting education.gov.au or servicesaustralia.gov.au