New CCS rules from January 2026 mean eligible families can access up to three subsidised days of early learning each week.
From January 2026, Lismore families will have greater access to affordable high-quality preschool education are care thanks to an important change called the 3 Day Guarantee.
Designed to give all children the opportunity to participate in crucial school readiness preschool education, this funding guarnatees three days of subsidised early learning and care each week—even if families don’t meet the CCS activity test.
For families, it’s a chance to enjoy more flexibility and support. For children, it means more time to play, explore, and grow during their most important early years.
Right now, families who don’t meet the CCS activity test (based on hours of paid work, study, or volunteering) can only access 24 hours of subsidised care per fortnight—about one day per week.
From January 2026, that allowance will increase to 72 hours per fortnight, or the equivalent of three days each week at Explorers.
It’s a positive change designed to give children more consistent access to early learning and families more breathing room in their daily lives.
You may be eligible if:
📍 You can check your family’s eligibility on the Services Australia website.
Rachel is a mum based in East Lismore with her 2-year-old son, Artie. She’s currently on parental leave and doesn’t meet the CCS activity test.
That means she currently only has access to one subsidised day of care per week. If she wanted Artie to attend more often, she’d need to cover full fees herself—which hasn’t been realistic based on her income.
From January 2026, Rachel and Artie will benefit from the 3 Day Guarantee:
For Artie, that means more time outdoors discovering, learning through play, and forming friendships. For Rachel, it means time to recharge, prepare for her return to work, and know her child is supported in a safe, nurturing environment.
The first five years of life are a time of remarkable growth. At Explorers, we see every day how consistent access to early learning helps children:
At Explorers School of Early Learning, families find more than a childcare service. We offer:
The 3 Day Guarantee begins in January 2026, but places in nursery and toddler rooms are already in high demand.
👉 Book a tour today to see our centre in Nesbitt Park, South Lismore and learn how Explorers can support your family.
📍 For the latest CCS information and to check your eligibility, visit Services Australia.
The 3 Day Guarantee is more than a funding change. It’s about giving children the gift of more time to play, learn, and grow, and giving families the confidence of knowing they’re supported.
At Explorers, we’re proud to create an environment where every child is welcomed, celebrated, and inspired to explore their world.
👉 Enquire or book a tour today to discover the Explorers difference.
We are a nature-based and community-minded childcare and preschool service focused on empowering our explorers to become curious and confident learners so that they can get the best start in life.