Treasurer Says 100,000 Families to Benefit as 3-Day Childcare Guarantee Kicks In

The new changes ease the eligibility to receive 3 days of guaranteed childcare per week.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers is seen during a press conference at The Paddo Tavern in Brisbane, Australia, on Oct. 14, 2025. AAP Image/Darren England

BRISBANE, Australia—From Jan. 1, 2026, Australian households are now eligible for a guaranteed three days of taxpayer-subsidised childcare a week, regardless of how much they work or study.

The “three-day guarantee” was announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in December 2024, and replaces the Morrison government’s subsidy plan.