Childcare options and support

If you are a parent returning to work or study, or with other commitments, you may need a childcare service for your child. There are several options to choose from, and the right arrangement will depend on how much care you need, your child’s age and the type of service you think would best suit your child.

Some childcare and family day care services have long waiting lists, so it is a good idea to plan ahead if you know roughly when you will need care. You can add your child’s name to a waiting list as early as you like to reserve a place for when you return to work or study, or for when a place becomes available.

Cost and financial support#

The cost of childcare depends on the type of service you choose and, in some cases, on your family income. Many governments offer financial assistance or subsidies to help with childcare fees, and some services are formally approved or registered so that families using them may be eligible for this support.

To find out what help you may be entitled to, contact your local government services or family support agencies. They can explain which payments or subsidies are available and how to apply.

Types of childcare and early learning services#

There are many education and care options. Finding the right one will depend on your needs and your child’s needs, the cost and any subsidies, the quality of the service, and what is available near your home or work.

Many providers will let you make an appointment to visit, see their facilities and have their program explained. Visiting is a good way to get a feel for whether a service is a good fit for you and your child.

Long day care – center-based services#

Childcare centers usually provide long day care, and many include an early learning component. Long day care suits children from birth to around school age, and centers commonly operate during standard working hours, with some opening earlier or offering morning and afternoon sessions.

Childcare centers are run by private companies, local councils, community organizations, individuals and non-profit groups. Approved or registered services are generally required to meet recognized quality standards.

Family day care#

Family day care providers offer early education and care for other people’s children in their own home. It is available for children from birth through to primary school age and can be flexible — including all-day, part-time, casual, overnight, before- and after-school care, and care during school holidays. This can suit families who are on call or who work shifts.

A family day care educator cares for a limited number of children in their home, including their own children, in line with local laws and regulations.

Outside school hours care#

Outside school hours care is for school-aged children, or children of any age in special or emergency situations. It operates before and after school, during school holidays and on student-free days.

Centers are often located on or near primary school sites, such as in a school hall or playground, while after-school care may also be provided in a childcare center or community facility nearby. Many centers offer a snack as part of the service, and vacation care usually includes a mix of indoor and outdoor activities.

Occasional care#

Occasional care provides care for children on a casual basis in a center. It suits families who do not need regular childcare but only require it from time to time, such as when they have an appointment.

Private nannies#

Nannies are paid carers who often have formal training in childcare or teaching, and should at least hold a current first aid certificate. They usually offer flexible arrangements and may be available after hours and on weekends, though a private nanny is generally more expensive than other options.

To reduce the cost, some families “nanny share”, splitting the nanny’s fees between two or more families. To find a good nanny, you can ask other parents, friends and family for recommendations, or contact a nanny agency. Look for someone who is a good fit for your family, and ask for references and any relevant background or working-with-children checks.

Learning at home#

Information about children’s education and care can help you understand developmental milestones, know what to expect from an early childhood service, and find tips on starting childcare or preschool, including what you can do at home to encourage your child’s learning and development.

Making a complaint#

If you have a concern about the care your child receives, or about a particular incident, it is a good idea to raise it as soon as possible, either in person or in writing.

As a first step, speak with the person or service involved — this might be the childcare provider, the person who manages the service, or a staff member. Your concern may be a misunderstanding or something a simple apology can resolve. The provider should manage and respond to your complaint in a discreet, effective and timely way.

Services are usually required to report serious matters to the relevant authority within a set time if a complaint alleges that the law has been broken, or that a child’s health, safety or wellbeing has not been protected. If you need help making a complaint, contact your local education or children’s services authority for guidance.

Where to get help#