From the 5th of January 2026, all families on the Gold Coast who are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) will be entitled to at least three days of subsidised child care each week, even if they don’t meet the current activity test for work, study or volunteering.
This update, known as the 3 Day Guarantee, triples the number of subsidised hours for families who previously received only one day of care per week. It’s one of the biggest changes to the CCS since it began and will make early learning more affordable for thousands of families.
For Gold Coast families in Biggera Waters, Runaway Bay, Labrador, Helensvale, Arundel, Coombabah and surrounds, this means easier access to high-quality early education at centres like Jacaranda Early Education, where meals, learning resources and essential care are all inclusive.
If you already receive the CCS, you don’t need to apply again because the increased hours will apply automatically when the change starts in early January 2026.
If you’re planning to enrol your child next year, now is the time to secure your preferred days and learn how the new system can reduce your child care costs.
Book a tour today or call us on (07) 5500 5044 to enquire.
What is the 3 Day Guarantee?
The 3 Day Guarantee gives eligible families 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight. This equates to roughly three days per week of subsidised child care for most long day care services.
Right now, families who don’t meet the CCS activity test can only access 24 hours per fortnight, or about the equivalent of one day per week.
From January 2026, that will triple. Children will have more time to learn and socialise, while parents will gain flexibility even if they’re not currently working or studying full-time.
Who will be eligible?
You may qualify for the 3 Day Guarantee if you:
- Are eligible for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
- Don’t meet the CCS activity test
- Have a child under school age
- Have a family income within the CCS limit (currently around $530,000 per year)
Families with Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children may receive up to 100 hours per fortnight of subsidised care.
You can check your eligibility or estimate your subsidy through the Services Australia Website.
.
A Real-Life Example
| Before (2025) | After (2026) |
|---|---|
| Subsidised days per week | 1 day |
| Example daily fee | $140 |
| CCS rate | 85% |
| Estimated out-of-pocket per week | $21 |
Megan, a local mum in Biggera Waters works casually and doesn’t meet the CCS activity test.
In 2025 and all the years prior, she could only afford one day of subsidised care for her 3-year-old.
From 2026, she’ll be eligible for 72 hours per fortnight. That means her child can attend three days each week, giving them more time to learn and play. For Megan, it’s a chance to either work extra shifts or take some time to recharge her batteries.
How the 3 Day Guarantee Can Help Gold Coast Families
Early learning child care helps children build confidence, curiosity, and social skills that prepare them for school.
More subsidised days could mean:
- More consistent routines for children
- Stronger friendships and social development
- More time for play-based learning
- Greater flexibility for families
Why Families Choose Jacaranda Early Education Biggera Waters
Families across Biggera Waters, Runaway Bay, Labrador, Helensvale, Arundel, and Coombabah choose Jacaranda Early Education because we offer childcare that provides a place where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.
Our centre combines experienced educators, strong learning programs, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Every detail, from the food to the daily routines is designed to make families feel at ease.
Here’s what families value most about our centre:
Experienced educators - Our team is made up of qualified teachers and early childhood professionals who take the time to understand each child.
Tailored care and learning - We adapt programs to suit your child’s age, stage, and personality.
Healthy meals cooked onsite - Our chef prepares nutritious meals and snacks daily, following menus developed with Feed Australia.
Inclusive daily fees - Nappies, wipes, and sunscreen are included, making life simpler for busy families.
Extra activities children love - Weekly yoga, music and movement sessions, and cultural programs encourage creativity and connection.
Community connections - Through our intergenerational and Aboriginal culture programs, children learn about empathy, respect, and the world around them.
Local families atending Jacaranda Early Education feel confident knowing their child is cared for by people who truly understand early learning and that take pride in helping every child grow.
Our Programs
At Jacaranda Early Education, our programs follow the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and Queensland Kindergarten Learning Guidelines. These frameworks guide how we plan and deliver learning experiences for every child, from babies to preschoolers.
Each program is built around the idea that children learn in different ways and at their own pace. Our educators observe, listen, and adapt so that every child can grow with confidence.
Babies (0–1 year)
We focus on calm, consistent routines that help babies feel secure. Play is sensory and responsive — full of sounds, textures and gentle movement that encourage exploration and bonding.
Toddlers (1–3 years)
Toddlers are curious and full of energy. Our program builds language, coordination and social skills through stories, songs, outdoor play, and hands-on activities. Educators support independence while offering warmth and guidance.
Preschool (3–5 years)
Our preschool program prepares children for school through play-based learning that encourages problem-solving, creativity and collaboration. We help children practise early literacy and numeracy, build friendships, and feel ready for the next step in their education.
Across all age groups, children learn through real experiences such as cooking, gardening, art, movement and music. All of these activities are supported by our caring educators who tailor activities to each child’s interests and abilities.
Every child has the chance to build confidence, form connections, and develop a love of learning that will carry through to school and beyond.
What to Do Now
The 3 Day Guarantee will make early learning more accessible for many Australian families. It gives parents more flexibility and children more time in a safe, caring environment where they can thrive.
At Jacaranda Early Education Biggera Waters, we’re here to support families across Runaway Bay, Labrador, Helensvale, Arundel, and Coombabah.
If you’re planning to start care in 2026:
-
Check your CCS eligibility on Services Australia
-
Book a tour at Jacaranda Early Education Biggera Waters
-
Secure your preferred days with us early.
Book a tour today and see how we can help your child start their learning journey with confidence.