From January 5, 2026, eligible families are now guaranteed three days per week of childcare subsidies without having to prove hours worked. How does this policy affect the work decisions and activities of Indonesian mothers in Australia?
The Australian federal government has removed the Activity Test requirement for the first three days of childcare subsidies from January 5, 2026.
Families eligible for subsidies are now guaranteed a minimum of 72 hours per fortnight — or the equivalent of three days per week — without having to prove their working hours.
The “3 Day Guarantee” policy changes long-standing rules requiring parents to work, study, or volunteer to be able to access subsidies. Previously, parents who worked less than 8 hours per fortnight got no subsidy at all.
This policy applies to families eligible for Child Care Subsidy (CCS), i.e. Australian citizens, permanent residents, or certain visa holders earning less than $533,280 per year.
To find out how this policy affects the work decisions and other activities of Indonesian mothers in Melbourne, SBS Indonesian spoke with Ms. Anis who is in college and Ms. Adrianne, who works freelance.
