top of page

Teddy Bear Cottage

Welcome to Teddy Bear Cottage

Teddy Bear Cottage is a not-for-profit, community-based early childhood education and care service located in the heart of Warragamba. We proudly cater for children aged 0 to 6 years, offering a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive. 

​

Open Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 6:00pm, our long day care centre supports busy families with high-quality care and early learning programs tailored to each developmental stage — from infancy through to preschool. As part of the Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre, we are deeply connected to our local community and committed to supporting children and families with compassion and respect. 

​

Our play-based learning programs are guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF v2.0), fostering creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. Our dedicated and passionate educators are experienced in creating meaningful, developmentally appropriate experiences that support each child’s unique strengths and interests. 

​

At Teddy Bear Cottage, all profits are reinvested directly back into the service to enhance the learning environment and resources for our children. We believe in building strong, collaborative partnerships with families and value the role of parents as the first and most important educators in their child's life. 

We invite you to book a tour and experience the warmth, community spirit, and quality care that make Teddy Bear Cottage a special place for children to begin their learning journey. 

vecteezy_child-stacking-colorful-blocks-in-a-sunny-park-filled-with_56526741.jpeg
vecteezy_happy-child-have-fun-outdoor_11621862.jpg

Book a Tour

Kindly complete the form below with your information, and we will respond promptly to finalize your tour arrangements

Thanks for submitting!

Government Funding for Child Care

$110.00 per day

Government-funded child care was introduced to support Australian families—recognising that in many households, both parents need to work or study. While the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) makes early education more affordable, we understand that navigating the system can sometimes feel overwhelming.

​

At Teddy Bear Cottage, we are here to help. Our knowledgeable and friendly team is experienced in supporting families through the CCS application process. Whether you're enrolling for the first time or need guidance updating your details, we’re happy to assist every step of the way to ensure you’re receiving the funding you’re entitled to.

If you have questions about your eligibility, how to apply, or what information is required, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

  • What Government Funding Changes Should Parents Know About?
    It's important for families to stay informed about any updates or changes to government funding for childcare. Being aware of new regulations, subsidy adjustments, and assessment processes can help you make the most of the support available for your child's early education. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we are committed to keeping our families informed. We regularly share updates about government funding and subsidies to ensure you have the knowledge needed to navigate changes confidently. Our centre also provides helpful resources and ideas to support your child’s learning journey at home, making it easier to stay engaged every step of the way.
  • Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
    Helping You Access Affordable Child Care At Teddy Bear Cottage, we understand the importance of making quality early education accessible for all families. The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a government initiative that helps reduce the cost of approved childcare based on your family’s circumstances. How is CCS Calculated? The amount of subsidy you receive is based on: Your family’s combined income The number of hours you and your partner engage in recognised activities (work, study, volunteering, etc.) The type of childcare service you use (e.g., long day care) Subsidy Rates Based on Income Combined Family Income Subsidy % of Child Care Fees (up to hourly rate cap) $0 to $80,000 90% $80,001 to under $530,000 Gradually reduces from 90% to 0%* $530,000 or more 0% *For every $5,000 earned over $80,000, the subsidy reduces by 1%. *Figures current as of 10 July 2023. How the Activity Test Works The number of subsidised hours per fortnight depends on how many hours both parents (if applicable) spend in recognised activities: Activity per Fortnight Subsidised Hours Less than 8 hours 0 hrs (if income > $80K), 24 hrs (if income ≤ $80K) | | More than 8 to 16 hours | 36 hours | | More than 16 to 48 hours | 72 hours | | More than 48 hours | 100 hours | 💡 Families with casual or irregular hours can estimate activity based on the highest fortnightly hours expected within a 3-month period. 🎓 Families with children in the year before starting school are eligible for 36 hours of care, regardless of activity level. Estimate Your Subsidy Want to know how much CCS you may be eligible for? Click the link below to use the official tool from Services Australia: 👉 Estimate your Child Care Subsidy https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/payment-and-service-finder
  • What Are the Benefits of Government-Funded Childcare for Families?
    Government funding for childcare provides significant support to Australian families, making early education more accessible and affordable. Through initiatives like the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families can reduce the cost of care, ensuring that children can benefit from high-quality early learning environments like Teddy Bear Cottage. One of the primary benefits is the ability for both parents to return to work, study, or training with confidence, knowing their child is in a safe, nurturing, and professionally run early childhood setting. This peace of mind is especially valuable to new parents navigating the transition back to the workforce. Government-funded childcare also creates financial stability during the important early years of a child’s life. With reduced out-of-pocket costs, families are better positioned to manage household expenses and plan for the future. Beyond financial relief, access to subsidised childcare supports parental wellbeing—particularly for mothers—by encouraging a return to social networks, careers, and community life. This connection plays a vital role in maintaining positive postnatal mental health and supporting a healthy family dynamic. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we believe every child deserves access to quality early learning, and every family deserves the support to thrive.
  • How is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Paid?
    The Child Care Subsidy is paid directly to childcare providers (like Teddy Bear Cottage) by the Australian Government. This means your fees are automatically reduced, and you only pay the gap—the difference between the subsidy amount and the full fee. Key Points for Families: The subsidy is applied in real time to reduce your out-of-pocket fees. Families cannot opt to receive the subsidy as a lump sum at the end of the financial year. You must submit a claim for CCS before or when your child starts care to ensure timely payments.
  • What Happens at the End of the Financial Year?
    After the end-of-year reconciliation process, any CCS still owed will be paid directly to families as a lump sum. If a family has received too much CCS, they may be required to repay the difference. To avoid delays or overpayments, it’s important to keep your family income estimate and activity details up to date with Services Australia.
  • When Does a Family Stop Receiving the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
    Families become ineligible for the Child Care Subsidy if their combined annual income reaches $530,000 or more. At this income level, no CCS will be paid. However, if you’re unsure whether your family’s income will exceed the threshold, it is still recommended to submit a claim for CCS. This keeps your eligibility active throughout the year. If your actual income at the end of the financial year is below $530,000, you may still be entitled to a back payment of the subsidy after the annual reconciliation process. 💡 Tip: To avoid missing out on support, always keep your income estimate updated with Services Australia https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy and lodge your claim even if your income is expected to be close to the limit.
  • What Is Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Withholding?
    Child Care Subsidy withholding is a system designed to help families avoid overpayments (and resulting debts) when their circumstances change throughout the year — such as income, work hours, or study activity. How It Works By default, 5% of your CCS is withheld from each payment made to your childcare provider. This withheld amount acts as a buffer in case your actual subsidy entitlement is lower than estimated. You can change your withholding rate (increase or decrease it) twice a year via your Centrelink online account through myGov. Why Withholding Matters If your income is underestimated, you may receive too much subsidy throughout the year and owe money to the government at tax time. The withheld amount helps reduce that potential debt. If your income is overestimated, and you receive less CCS than you’re entitled to, the government will reimburse the difference, including the withheld amount, at the end of the financial year. ✅ Tip: Keep your income estimate accurate and review it regularly to avoid surprise debts or missed payments. For more information or to manage your withholding, visit Services Australia – Child Care Subsidy. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy
  • What Is the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS)?
    The Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) is a top-up payment that provides extra financial assistance on top of the standard Child Care Subsidy (CCS). It is designed to support families and children who need extra help accessing childcare. This targeted support helps ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to benefit from safe, high-quality early learning environments like Teddy Bear Cottage. There are four types of Additional Child Care Subsidy: Child Wellbeing For children who are at risk of serious abuse or neglect. This subsidy ensures vulnerable children can access childcare in a safe and supportive environment. Grandparents For grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren and are receiving income support. This helps ease the financial pressure of caregiving. Temporary Financial Hardship For families experiencing short-term financial difficulties due to unexpected events (e.g., loss of income, natural disasters, medical emergencies). Transition to Work For parents who are transitioning into the workforce from income support. It assists with childcare costs while undertaking study, training, or starting a job. How to Apply To access the Additional Child Care Subsidy, families must apply through Centrelink via their myGov account or contact Services Australia directly. 🔗 Learn more or apply via Services Australia – Additional Child Care Subsidy https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/additional-child-care-subsidy Where can I get further information on the child care package? Visit the Department of Education and Training Child Care Package website at gov.au/early-childhood Visit the Department of Human Services Child Care Subsidy gov.au/childcaresubsidy

Our Philosophy at Teddy Bear Cottage

At Teddy Bear Cottage, we believe that every child is capable, curious, and full of potential. We take a holistic approach to early learning, supporting each child’s development in a warm, nurturing, and inclusive environment. Guided by the principles of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) — Belonging, Being and Becoming — we aim to create a space where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to explore the world around them.

 

We see children as active participants in their own learning. Drawing on the ideas of respected theorists such as Lev Vygotsky, who highlighted the importance of social interaction, and Jean Piaget, who championed play as essential for learning, we foster an environment that encourages discovery, problem-solving, and imagination. Influenced by the Reggio Emilia approach, our program follows the interests of the children, allowing their curiosity to guide their learning journey.

What We Believe In:

Respectful and Nurturing Relationships

Our educators build strong, caring bonds with every child. Inspired by John Bowlby’s Attachment Theory, we prioritise emotional security, helping children develop the confidence to explore, take risks, and grow.

Play-Based Learning

We know that children learn best through play. Our program provides hands-on, engaging experiences that allow children to explore at their own pace, build independence, and develop important life skills. We embrace aspects of Maria Montessori’s philosophy, encouraging choice, autonomy, and self-regulation.

Strong Family Partnerships

Families are a child’s first and most important teachers. We work closely with families, sharing information, listening to their insights, and building genuine, respectful partnerships to support each child’s learning and wellbeing.

Inclusion and Cultural Respect

Teddy Bear Cottage is a safe and welcoming place for all children and families. We celebrate and respect diversity, embedding inclusive and culturally responsive practices into our everyday routines and curriculum. Every child and family belongs here.

Continuous Reflection and Growth

Our educators are committed to ongoing learning and improvement. We regularly reflect on our practice, seek feedback from families and children, and engage in professional development to ensure we’re always providing the best possible care and education. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we see every child as the author of their own story. With the right support, encouragement, and opportunities, we help each child build a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

Teddy Bear Cottage History

Teddy Bear Cottage has proudly served the Warragamba community and surrounding areas since 2008, when it was officially established under the governance of the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). The centre was created in response to a growing need for accessible, high-quality early childhood education and care in the region — particularly for families experiencing financial or social disadvantage. From the very beginning, Teddy Bear Cottage has operated as a not-for-profit service, with every decision founded in the best interests of children, families, and the broader community. Over the years, Teddy Bear Cottage has become much more than just a childcare centre — it is a welcoming and supportive community hub. Families know they can rely on us not only for education and care but also for understanding, connection, and guidance during the early years of their child’s life. Our close partnership with the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc) allows us to offer additional supports and referrals to local services, ensuring families receive holistic care tailored to their individual circumstances. This also includes supportive referral pathways and collaborative approach to access Allied Health Professions such as Speach and Occupational Therapist (additional fee for service). At the heart of Teddy Bear Cottage is our dedicated team of passionate educators, many of whom have been with us for several years. Our team is known for creating a warm, nurturing, and safe environment, where every child is treated with kindness, respect, and genuine care. We place strong emphasis on building trusting relationships with children and families and creating a space where children feel confident to explore, learn, and express themselves. Guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and influenced by child development theorists such as Vygotsky, Piaget, and Bowlby, our educators understand the importance of play-based learning, emotional security, and a sense of belonging. We pride ourselves on creating meaningful, inclusive learning experiences that reflect the interests and backgrounds of every child in our care. As a community-based service, all profits are reinvested into the centre to enhance learning environments, resources, educator development, and support programs. This commitment ensures we continue to grow and adapt, while maintaining the same values and heart that have defined Teddy Bear Cottage from the very beginning. Now, more than 15 years later, we remain committed to our original mission: to provide a safe, inclusive, and enriching early learning environment where children can thrive — and where every family feels seen, heard, and supported as valued contributors to our service and community.

Meet the Team

Meet Hayley – Centre Director

Hayley brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and hands-on experience to her role as Director of Teddy Bear Cottage. Her early childhood education journey began in 2008, when she first completed her Certificate III in Children’s Services. Over the next 13 years, Hayley worked across privately owned centres throughout Western Sydney, taking on a range of roles including Educator, 2IC, and eventually Centre Director. This experience gave her a strong foundation in leadership, family engagement, and high-quality care and education practices.

In 2020, after the birth of her son 2019, Hayley made the decision to join the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). Children's Services Leadership team as a director, where she quickly became a valued part of the team. Hayley has completed her Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, deepening her understanding of the sector and strengthening her pedagogical approach.

Hayley has continued to pursue further study and began her Bachelor of Early Childhood and Primary Education at university. This decision reflects her ongoing commitment to professional growth and her passion for delivering the best outcomes for children and families.

In 2025, Hayley was appointed Children's Services Centre Director, bringing with her not only extensive experience but a deep connection to the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). service’s and aligned community values. She is a strong advocate for inclusive practices, play-based learning, and building meaningful relationships with children, families, and educators. Hayley leads with empathy, professionalism, and a deep belief in the importance of the early years.

When she's not leading the team at Children's Services team, Hayley is a proud mum who understands the joys and challenges of parenting firsthand—something that enriches her practice and leadership even further.

Meet Brooklyn – Room leader

Brooklyn first joined the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). team in 2020, working as an educator at Wigwam in before and after school care. During this time, Brooklyn worked across sites within the Children Services team during lunch cover and quickly discovered her passion for working with younger children.

Drawn to the joy and curiosity of babies and toddlers, Brooklyn made the transition to full-time work within the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). Children Services team continues to shine as a dedicated and enthusiastic educator. She is currently studying her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, further developing her knowledge and skills in the early childhood sector.

Brooklyn’s caring and bubbly personality makes her a favourite among the children. She brings warmth, energy, and creativity into every interaction and is deeply committed to supporting each child’s learning and wellbeing. Her ability to form strong, nurturing relationships helps create a positive and welcoming environment where children feel safe, seen, and supported.

Meet Amelia – Room Leader 

Amelia began her career in early childhood education in 2021, with WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc).CHildren Services team starting as a trainee while studying for her Certificate III in Children’s Services. Amelia has a passion for early learning education and is currently studying her Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. Amelia's role as room leader in the Possums Room, enables her to demonstrate her dedication, patience, and gentle nature create a nurturing and engaging environment for children to thrive.
Known for her warm and caring personality, Amelia builds strong, trusting relationships with every child in her care. She takes pride in creating a space where children feel safe, supported, and confident to explore, learn, and express themselves. Her calm presence and genuine love for what she does make her a valued educator and a beloved part of the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). Childrens Services team.

Meet Naomi – Educator

Naomi joined the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). Children's Services team in 2023 as a trainee, bringing with her a natural warmth and enthusiasm for working with children. Since completing her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Naomi has become a valued and versatile team member, supporting across all rooms and age groups.
Naomi has a genuine passion for building strong, nurturing relationships with children and is known for her calm, kind, and patient approach. Whether she’s working with infants, toddlers, or preschoolers, Naomi creates a safe and engaging environment where children feel supported and confident to learn and grow.
Her dedication, flexibility, and positive attitude make her an integral part of the WSNC (Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre Inc). Children's Services team, and her connection with the children shines through in everything she does.

Licencing NQS and EYLF Info

At Teddy Bear Cottage, we are committed to providing high-quality early childhood education and care that meets and exceeds national standards. As a licensed early learning service in New South Wales, we operate under the regulations and expectations set by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) and the NSW Department of Education.

​

Licensing

Teddy Bear Cottage is an approved and licensed early childhood education and care service. We are regulated under the:

  • Education and Care Services National Law (NSW)

  • Education and Care Services National Regulations

Our service is regularly assessed to ensure we comply with all legal requirements relating to health, safety, staffing, educational programs, and the overall wellbeing of children.

​

National Quality Standard (NQS)

The National Quality Standard (NQS) sets a benchmark for the quality of early childhood education and care in Australia. It outlines seven quality areas that are essential to children’s development, safety, and learning:

  • Educational Program and Practice

  • Children’s Health and Safety

  • Physical Environment

  • Staffing Arrangements

  • Relationships with Children

  • Collaborative Partnerships with Families and Communities

  • Governance and Leadership

At Teddy Bear Cottage, we continuously reflect on and improve our practices in line with the NQS to ensure we provide the best possible outcomes for children and families.

 

Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF v2.0)

Our curriculum is guided by the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), Version 2.0, which focuses on the principles of:

  • Belonging – Knowing where and with whom you belong

  • Being – Recognising the here and now in a child’s life

  • Becoming – Supporting children to learn and grow into active citizens

 

The EYLF promotes play-based learning and is built around five learning outcomes that support children from birth to five years:

  • Children have a strong sense of identity

  • Children are connected with and contribute to their world

  • Children have a strong sense of wellbeing

  • Children are confident and involved learners

  • Children are effective communicators

Through the EYLF, our educators design meaningful, engaging programs that reflect each child’s individual interests, strengths, and developmental needs.

Want to Learn More?

You can read more about the National Quality Framework https://www.acecqa.gov.au/nqf/about  and the Early Years Learning Framework https://www.acecqa.gov.au/nqf/national-law-regulations/approved-learning-frameworks  on the ACECQA website.

Our Rooms at Teddy Bear Cottage

At Teddy Bear Cottage, our learning environments are thoughtfully designed to support each stage of your child’s development. Our rooms cater to specific age groups and focus on nurturing children’s growth through play-based learning, strong relationships, and responsive care.

Enquire Now
  • What Government Funding Changes Should Parents Know About?
    It's important for families to stay informed about any updates or changes to government funding for childcare. Being aware of new regulations, subsidy adjustments, and assessment processes can help you make the most of the support available for your child's early education. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we are committed to keeping our families informed. We regularly share updates about government funding and subsidies to ensure you have the knowledge needed to navigate changes confidently. Our centre also provides helpful resources and ideas to support your child’s learning journey at home, making it easier to stay engaged every step of the way.
  • Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
    Helping You Access Affordable Child Care At Teddy Bear Cottage, we understand the importance of making quality early education accessible for all families. The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a government initiative that helps reduce the cost of approved childcare based on your family’s circumstances. How is CCS Calculated? The amount of subsidy you receive is based on: Your family’s combined income The number of hours you and your partner engage in recognised activities (work, study, volunteering, etc.) The type of childcare service you use (e.g., long day care) Subsidy Rates Based on Income Combined Family Income Subsidy % of Child Care Fees (up to hourly rate cap) $0 to $80,000 90% $80,001 to under $530,000 Gradually reduces from 90% to 0%* $530,000 or more 0% *For every $5,000 earned over $80,000, the subsidy reduces by 1%. *Figures current as of 10 July 2023. How the Activity Test Works The number of subsidised hours per fortnight depends on how many hours both parents (if applicable) spend in recognised activities: Activity per Fortnight Subsidised Hours Less than 8 hours 0 hrs (if income > $80K), 24 hrs (if income ≤ $80K) | | More than 8 to 16 hours | 36 hours | | More than 16 to 48 hours | 72 hours | | More than 48 hours | 100 hours | 💡 Families with casual or irregular hours can estimate activity based on the highest fortnightly hours expected within a 3-month period. 🎓 Families with children in the year before starting school are eligible for 36 hours of care, regardless of activity level. Estimate Your Subsidy Want to know how much CCS you may be eligible for? Click the link below to use the official tool from Services Australia: 👉 Estimate your Child Care Subsidy https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/payment-and-service-finder
  • What Are the Benefits of Government-Funded Childcare for Families?
    Government funding for childcare provides significant support to Australian families, making early education more accessible and affordable. Through initiatives like the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families can reduce the cost of care, ensuring that children can benefit from high-quality early learning environments like Teddy Bear Cottage. One of the primary benefits is the ability for both parents to return to work, study, or training with confidence, knowing their child is in a safe, nurturing, and professionally run early childhood setting. This peace of mind is especially valuable to new parents navigating the transition back to the workforce. Government-funded childcare also creates financial stability during the important early years of a child’s life. With reduced out-of-pocket costs, families are better positioned to manage household expenses and plan for the future. Beyond financial relief, access to subsidised childcare supports parental wellbeing—particularly for mothers—by encouraging a return to social networks, careers, and community life. This connection plays a vital role in maintaining positive postnatal mental health and supporting a healthy family dynamic. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we believe every child deserves access to quality early learning, and every family deserves the support to thrive.
  • How is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Paid?
    The Child Care Subsidy is paid directly to childcare providers (like Teddy Bear Cottage) by the Australian Government. This means your fees are automatically reduced, and you only pay the gap—the difference between the subsidy amount and the full fee. Key Points for Families: The subsidy is applied in real time to reduce your out-of-pocket fees. Families cannot opt to receive the subsidy as a lump sum at the end of the financial year. You must submit a claim for CCS before or when your child starts care to ensure timely payments.
  • What Happens at the End of the Financial Year?
    After the end-of-year reconciliation process, any CCS still owed will be paid directly to families as a lump sum. If a family has received too much CCS, they may be required to repay the difference. To avoid delays or overpayments, it’s important to keep your family income estimate and activity details up to date with Services Australia.
  • When Does a Family Stop Receiving the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
    Families become ineligible for the Child Care Subsidy if their combined annual income reaches $530,000 or more. At this income level, no CCS will be paid. However, if you’re unsure whether your family’s income will exceed the threshold, it is still recommended to submit a claim for CCS. This keeps your eligibility active throughout the year. If your actual income at the end of the financial year is below $530,000, you may still be entitled to a back payment of the subsidy after the annual reconciliation process. 💡 Tip: To avoid missing out on support, always keep your income estimate updated with Services Australia https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy and lodge your claim even if your income is expected to be close to the limit.
  • What Is Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Withholding?
    Child Care Subsidy withholding is a system designed to help families avoid overpayments (and resulting debts) when their circumstances change throughout the year — such as income, work hours, or study activity. How It Works By default, 5% of your CCS is withheld from each payment made to your childcare provider. This withheld amount acts as a buffer in case your actual subsidy entitlement is lower than estimated. You can change your withholding rate (increase or decrease it) twice a year via your Centrelink online account through myGov. Why Withholding Matters If your income is underestimated, you may receive too much subsidy throughout the year and owe money to the government at tax time. The withheld amount helps reduce that potential debt. If your income is overestimated, and you receive less CCS than you’re entitled to, the government will reimburse the difference, including the withheld amount, at the end of the financial year. ✅ Tip: Keep your income estimate accurate and review it regularly to avoid surprise debts or missed payments. For more information or to manage your withholding, visit Services Australia – Child Care Subsidy. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy
  • What Is the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS)?
    The Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) is a top-up payment that provides extra financial assistance on top of the standard Child Care Subsidy (CCS). It is designed to support families and children who need extra help accessing childcare. This targeted support helps ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to benefit from safe, high-quality early learning environments like Teddy Bear Cottage. There are four types of Additional Child Care Subsidy: Child Wellbeing For children who are at risk of serious abuse or neglect. This subsidy ensures vulnerable children can access childcare in a safe and supportive environment. Grandparents For grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren and are receiving income support. This helps ease the financial pressure of caregiving. Temporary Financial Hardship For families experiencing short-term financial difficulties due to unexpected events (e.g., loss of income, natural disasters, medical emergencies). Transition to Work For parents who are transitioning into the workforce from income support. It assists with childcare costs while undertaking study, training, or starting a job. How to Apply To access the Additional Child Care Subsidy, families must apply through Centrelink via their myGov account or contact Services Australia directly. 🔗 Learn more or apply via Services Australia – Additional Child Care Subsidy https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/additional-child-care-subsidy Where can I get further information on the child care package? Visit the Department of Education and Training Child Care Package website at gov.au/early-childhood Visit the Department of Human Services Child Care Subsidy gov.au/childcaresubsidy

Teddy Bear Programs

  • What Government Funding Changes Should Parents Know About?
    It's important for families to stay informed about any updates or changes to government funding for childcare. Being aware of new regulations, subsidy adjustments, and assessment processes can help you make the most of the support available for your child's early education. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we are committed to keeping our families informed. We regularly share updates about government funding and subsidies to ensure you have the knowledge needed to navigate changes confidently. Our centre also provides helpful resources and ideas to support your child’s learning journey at home, making it easier to stay engaged every step of the way.
  • Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
    Helping You Access Affordable Child Care At Teddy Bear Cottage, we understand the importance of making quality early education accessible for all families. The Child Care Subsidy (CCS) is a government initiative that helps reduce the cost of approved childcare based on your family’s circumstances. How is CCS Calculated? The amount of subsidy you receive is based on: Your family’s combined income The number of hours you and your partner engage in recognised activities (work, study, volunteering, etc.) The type of childcare service you use (e.g., long day care) Subsidy Rates Based on Income Combined Family Income Subsidy % of Child Care Fees (up to hourly rate cap) $0 to $80,000 90% $80,001 to under $530,000 Gradually reduces from 90% to 0%* $530,000 or more 0% *For every $5,000 earned over $80,000, the subsidy reduces by 1%. *Figures current as of 10 July 2023. How the Activity Test Works The number of subsidised hours per fortnight depends on how many hours both parents (if applicable) spend in recognised activities: Activity per Fortnight Subsidised Hours Less than 8 hours 0 hrs (if income > $80K), 24 hrs (if income ≤ $80K) | | More than 8 to 16 hours | 36 hours | | More than 16 to 48 hours | 72 hours | | More than 48 hours | 100 hours | 💡 Families with casual or irregular hours can estimate activity based on the highest fortnightly hours expected within a 3-month period. 🎓 Families with children in the year before starting school are eligible for 36 hours of care, regardless of activity level. Estimate Your Subsidy Want to know how much CCS you may be eligible for? Click the link below to use the official tool from Services Australia: 👉 Estimate your Child Care Subsidy https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/payment-and-service-finder
  • What Are the Benefits of Government-Funded Childcare for Families?
    Government funding for childcare provides significant support to Australian families, making early education more accessible and affordable. Through initiatives like the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), families can reduce the cost of care, ensuring that children can benefit from high-quality early learning environments like Teddy Bear Cottage. One of the primary benefits is the ability for both parents to return to work, study, or training with confidence, knowing their child is in a safe, nurturing, and professionally run early childhood setting. This peace of mind is especially valuable to new parents navigating the transition back to the workforce. Government-funded childcare also creates financial stability during the important early years of a child’s life. With reduced out-of-pocket costs, families are better positioned to manage household expenses and plan for the future. Beyond financial relief, access to subsidised childcare supports parental wellbeing—particularly for mothers—by encouraging a return to social networks, careers, and community life. This connection plays a vital role in maintaining positive postnatal mental health and supporting a healthy family dynamic. At Teddy Bear Cottage, we believe every child deserves access to quality early learning, and every family deserves the support to thrive.
  • How is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Paid?
    The Child Care Subsidy is paid directly to childcare providers (like Teddy Bear Cottage) by the Australian Government. This means your fees are automatically reduced, and you only pay the gap—the difference between the subsidy amount and the full fee. Key Points for Families: The subsidy is applied in real time to reduce your out-of-pocket fees. Families cannot opt to receive the subsidy as a lump sum at the end of the financial year. You must submit a claim for CCS before or when your child starts care to ensure timely payments.
  • What Happens at the End of the Financial Year?
    After the end-of-year reconciliation process, any CCS still owed will be paid directly to families as a lump sum. If a family has received too much CCS, they may be required to repay the difference. To avoid delays or overpayments, it’s important to keep your family income estimate and activity details up to date with Services Australia.
  • When Does a Family Stop Receiving the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
    Families become ineligible for the Child Care Subsidy if their combined annual income reaches $530,000 or more. At this income level, no CCS will be paid. However, if you’re unsure whether your family’s income will exceed the threshold, it is still recommended to submit a claim for CCS. This keeps your eligibility active throughout the year. If your actual income at the end of the financial year is below $530,000, you may still be entitled to a back payment of the subsidy after the annual reconciliation process. 💡 Tip: To avoid missing out on support, always keep your income estimate updated with Services Australia https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy and lodge your claim even if your income is expected to be close to the limit.
  • What Is Child Care Subsidy (CCS) Withholding?
    Child Care Subsidy withholding is a system designed to help families avoid overpayments (and resulting debts) when their circumstances change throughout the year — such as income, work hours, or study activity. How It Works By default, 5% of your CCS is withheld from each payment made to your childcare provider. This withheld amount acts as a buffer in case your actual subsidy entitlement is lower than estimated. You can change your withholding rate (increase or decrease it) twice a year via your Centrelink online account through myGov. Why Withholding Matters If your income is underestimated, you may receive too much subsidy throughout the year and owe money to the government at tax time. The withheld amount helps reduce that potential debt. If your income is overestimated, and you receive less CCS than you’re entitled to, the government will reimburse the difference, including the withheld amount, at the end of the financial year. ✅ Tip: Keep your income estimate accurate and review it regularly to avoid surprise debts or missed payments. For more information or to manage your withholding, visit Services Australia – Child Care Subsidy. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/child-care-subsidy
  • What Is the Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS)?
    The Additional Child Care Subsidy (ACCS) is a top-up payment that provides extra financial assistance on top of the standard Child Care Subsidy (CCS). It is designed to support families and children who need extra help accessing childcare. This targeted support helps ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to benefit from safe, high-quality early learning environments like Teddy Bear Cottage. There are four types of Additional Child Care Subsidy: Child Wellbeing For children who are at risk of serious abuse or neglect. This subsidy ensures vulnerable children can access childcare in a safe and supportive environment. Grandparents For grandparents who are the primary carers of their grandchildren and are receiving income support. This helps ease the financial pressure of caregiving. Temporary Financial Hardship For families experiencing short-term financial difficulties due to unexpected events (e.g., loss of income, natural disasters, medical emergencies). Transition to Work For parents who are transitioning into the workforce from income support. It assists with childcare costs while undertaking study, training, or starting a job. How to Apply To access the Additional Child Care Subsidy, families must apply through Centrelink via their myGov account or contact Services Australia directly. 🔗 Learn more or apply via Services Australia – Additional Child Care Subsidy https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/additional-child-care-subsidy Where can I get further information on the child care package? Visit the Department of Education and Training Child Care Package website at gov.au/early-childhood Visit the Department of Human Services Child Care Subsidy gov.au/childcaresubsidy
bottom of page