We’re extending some existing COVID-19 measures for the early childhood education and care sector to 30 June 2023.
Absences
All families will get 52 allowable absences for the 2022–23 financial year.
Families can access additional absences, in certain circumstances, if they’ve used their 52 days. This includes if a child is ill and provides you with a medical certificate.
From 1 March 2022, if a child or a member of their immediate household has COVID-19, the family may provide evidence of a positive COVID-19 test result from a government or health agency in place of a medical certificate.
We’re also extending the exceptions to the absences before and after care rule for enrolments that start or end between 1 December 2021 and 30 June 2023.
See details about absences and COVID-19.
Gap fees
Until 30 June 2023, you can waive the gap fee and continue to receive Child Care Subsidy (CCS) if a child is unable to attend care for one of three reasons. These include:
- the child, or a member of their immediate household, must isolate with COVID-19
- the child is at a higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19
- the service, or a room at the service, is closed due to COVID-19.
See details about gap fee waiving and COVID-19.
Restrictions
In the event that a state or territory government restricts access to care due to COVID-19, we may declare a period of emergency. We’ll provide more information about support available during a period of emergency shortly.