Understanding Child Care Fees, Inclusions, and Government Subsidies
When choosing a premium early learning centre, understanding the costs involved is an important part of the decision-making process. While fees can vary based on your location, your child’s age, and the number of days they attend, many families are eligible for support through the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) - and with the proposed 3-day guarantee, access to high-quality early education may soon become even more affordable.
At Papilio Early Learning, we offer more than just care. We provide a nurturing, enriching environment where children receive the highest quality education and support - guided by our exclusive Lifelong Learning Curriculum and delivered by qualified educators.
What Factors Affect Childcare Costs?
The cost of child care can vary depending on:
- Your location – Fees may differ depending on your region or suburb
- Your child’s age – Care for younger children may have higher fees due to lower educator-to-child ratios
- How many days and hours your child attends each week
- Your family’s eligibility for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
Want to estimate your fees? Use our Child Care Subsidy Calculator to see how much support you could receive.
What’s Included in Your Daily Fee at Papilio?
As a premium provider, Papilio Early Learning offers exceptional value, with many essential items included in your daily fee - no unexpected extras.
- Healthy meals and snacks (most centres) – Prepared fresh onsite and tailored to children’s nutritional needs. View our healthy menu.
- Nappies provided (most centres) – Convenience for families and comfort for children
- Lifelong Learning Curriculum – Our exclusive, research-based approach supporting early development and school readiness
- MathSeeds and Reading Eggs subscriptions – Included for children aged 3–5 as part of our School Readiness program
- Play-based learning – Fostering creativity, confidence, and critical thinking
- Outdoor play and movement – Encouraging healthy habits and physical development
- Experienced, nurturing educators – Creating a secure, inclusive and engaging learning environment every day
- Commitment to safety and quality – Supported by dedicated national teams in education, safety, and compliance
What Is the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
The Child Care Subsidy is a government program that helps reduce the cost of early learning for eligible families. Your CCS percentage depends on:
- Your combined family income
- The type of approved child care your child attends
- The number of hours you work, study, or volunteer
- Whether your child is up to date with immunisations
The CCS is paid directly to Papilio, reducing your fees. You simply pay the difference.
Learn more on our Child Care Subsidy page.
What’s the 3-Day Guarantee?
In February 2025, the Australian Government introduced legislation to Parliament for the 3-day guarantee, a proposed policy aimed at providing more equitable access to early childhood education and care.
If passed, this means:
- All CCS-eligible families will receive at least 72 hours of subsidised care per fortnight (equivalent to 3 days per week)
- This applies regardless of the number of hours you work, study, or volunteer
- First Nations families will receive up to 100 hours of subsidised care per fortnight
- Families working, studying, or volunteering for more than 48 hours per fortnight will continue to receive up to 100 hours per child
These changes could open the door to more hours of subsidised care for more families - even those who currently don’t meet the activity test.
We’ll continue to update families as more information becomes available.
Why Early Learning at Papilio Matters
Early childhood education is one of the most important investments you can make in your child’s future.
According to research by the Mitchell Institute, children who participate in high-quality early learning programs show better development in literacy and numeracy by the time they reach primary school, with long-term benefits extending into adulthood.
Want to Know More?
To get an accurate estimate of your child care fees, contact our Family Support Team on 1800 244 532. We’re here to help you with:
- Fee information for your preferred Papilio Early Learning centre
- Estimating your Child Care Subsidy
- Understanding your entitlements under the proposed 3-day guarantee
- Booking a tour or securing your child’s place
Want to know how much you could save? Use our Child Care Subsidy Calculator to get a personalised estimate.
Experience Premium Early Education with Papilio
Choosing Papilio means choosing a centre that values quality, care, and your child’s development. We create exceptional early learning experiences - and we’re here to make your journey into child care easy and affordable.
Call us on 1800 244 532 or book a tour today to learn more about our fees, inclusions, and programs.
