The 3-Day Guarantee: What It Means for Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre Families in 2026

There’s exciting news ahead for families in 2026. Starting January 5, the Australian Government will introduce the 3-Day Guarantee, giving eligible families greater access to subsidised early learning. This change is designed to make childcare more achievable and easier to plan around real-life routines. At Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre, we’re ready to support families in making the most of this new initiative.

Understanding the 3-Day Guarantee

The 3-Day Guarantee provides a minimum of three fully subsidised childcare days each week for eligible children. It sits under the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and was created to give families more flexibility and affordability, especially for those who don’t work traditional hours.

This means that even if you’re working part-time, studying casually, or staying home with your child, you can still receive three days of subsidised early learning every week.

For First Nations families, the support is even more generous. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children can access up to 100 subsidised hours per fortnight, ensuring more opportunities to learn, play, and connect.

Who Can Access the 3-Day Guarantee?

If your family qualifies for the Child Care Subsidy, and most families using childcare do, you’ll automatically have access to the 3-Day Guarantee. You won’t need to meet the usual activity test requirements to receive at least three days of subsidised care.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, you can easily check through your MyGov account or chat with our team at Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre, and we can walk you through the process.

The Benefits of Attending Three Days a Week

A three-day attendance pattern at Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre provides children with:

• A steadier routine that supports emotional security
  
• Increased opportunities to build friendships
  
• More time to explore interests, creativity, and outdoor play
  
• Greater confidence and independence through consistent engagement
  

For families, it offers reassurance, knowing your child is participating in a nurturing, stimulating environment while you manage work, study, or personal commitments.

Important Details for Families

While the 3-Day Guarantee ensures subsidised hours, it does not secure a placement at Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre. Families still need to enquire and complete the enrolment process to confirm availability.

A small out-of-pocket gap fee may apply, depending on your CCS percentage and our daily fee structure. If your child already attends more than three subsidised days, nothing will change, you’ll continue with your existing entitlements.

How We Support Families at Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre

Our team is here to help you understand the new system and choose the attendance pattern that best supports your child’s development. We can explain how the 3-Day Guarantee works, guide you through CCS eligibility, and help you build a weekly routine that maximises your child’s early learning experience.

If you have questions or would like to explore your childcare options for 2026, contact us on  1300 330 666. We’d love to help you begin your journey with Reggio Emilia Early Learning Centre.