Childcare Fees in Ultimo

Current 2026 Childcare Fees in Ultimo

The table below shows the complete Believe Playschool fee schedule. In addition, the fee band reflects both age and development rather than a classroom name alone. Therefore, children in the same room may move to a different fee band at different times.

Child Care Subsidy applies according to each family’s eligibility. The figures above are the full service fees before CCS or eligible NSW preschool fee relief reduces the family’s account.

Developmental Indicators for Each Fee Band

The following indicators guide the discussion about progression to the next fee band. In particular, they describe the level of care, routine and participation generally associated with each stage.

0–18 Months

There are no specific developmental requirements for this first band. Children receive a high level of individual care, including support with sleep routines and feeding.

18–24 Months

Children are confidently walking, transitioning to fewer daytime sleeps, eating from the main menu, developing independence with feeding, moving away from bottles and beginning to use a cup.

2–3 Years

Children can sit for meals, follow simple instructions, engage with books and group experiences, transition to one daytime sleep and begin preparing for toilet learning.

3+ Years

Children demonstrate independent toileting, basic self-care and dressing skills. They are also developing emotional regulation, engaging socially and participating in structured group learning.

These indicators support a discussion; they do not replace individual knowledge of the child. Therefore, families are included before any fee-band change takes effect.

Session Choices and Childcare Costs in Ultimo

Families choose the session that best matches the hours of care they regularly need. Moreover, fixed sessions support predictable routines, staffing and room planning.

Short Day

Hours: 8:30 am–4:30 pm.
Minimum booking: three days per week.

Standard Day

Hours: 8:30 am–5:30 pm.
Minimum booking: two days per week.

Full Day

Hours: 7:00 am–6:00 pm.
Minimum booking: two days per week.

Because the three session lengths have different prices, families can compare childcare costs in Ultimo against the hours they genuinely require rather than paying for one standard session only.

How Child Care Subsidy Reduces Childcare Fees in Ultimo

Child Care Subsidy, usually called CCS, is an Australian Government payment that helps eligible families with the cost of approved childcare. Importantly, Services Australia determines each family’s entitlement.

Generally, the government pays Child Care Subsidy directly to the childcare service. Believe Playschool then applies the subsidy to the family’s account, and the family pays the remaining gap fee.

The amount of Child Care Subsidy can differ between families because Services Australia considers family circumstances, income, the number of subsidised hours and other current CCS rules. Therefore, two families using the same session may pay different gap fees.

From 5 January 2026, CCS-eligible families can receive at least 72 hours of subsidised childcare per child each fortnight. Some families may qualify for up to 100 subsidised hours, depending on their circumstances. However, subsidised care does not mean that the session is free; a family may still have a gap fee.

2026 NSW Preschool Fee Relief

Believe Playschool participates in the NSW Start Strong for Long Day Care program. Eligible families may receive preschool fee relief in addition to Child Care Subsidy.

For 2026, the NSW Government publishes two fee-relief rates for eligible children attending participating long day care services:

The NSW Government determines the eligibility rules for the two rates. In addition, families must complete the required declaration and nominate one participating service to receive the fee relief.

Believe Playschool applies eligible preschool fee relief to reduce the family’s fees in accordance with the current NSW Government requirements.

Childcare Fees and CCS FAQs

Are fees based only on my child’s age?

No. Age provides a guide, but the centre and family also discuss whether the child has consistently and competently reached the developmental stage for the next fee band.

When does a new fee begin?

After the centre and family agree that the child has reached the next developmental stage, the new fee begins from the next billing cycle.

How are children with additional needs considered?

The centre discusses developmental expectations individually with the child’s family rather than applying a rigid standard.

Does Child Care Subsidy apply?

Yes, for eligible families. Services Australia determines the Child Care Subsidy entitlement and Believe Playschool applies the approved amount to the family’s account.

Does the 72-hour guarantee mean three free days?

No. Eligible families can receive at least 72 subsidised hours each fortnight from 5 January 2026. However, a gap fee may still remain.

Can CCS and NSW preschool fee relief both apply?

Yes, where the child and family meet the relevant requirements. Services Australia determines CCS, while the NSW Government sets the preschool fee-relief rules.

What personal items are included?

The fee includes a personal hat, personal sheets and a personal cot.