Access to childcare can make a big difference to family wellbeing. It can support children’s learning and development, and it can help parents and carers work, study, attend appointments, manage health needs, or take time to rest.  

Childcare needs can change over time. What works for your family may depend on your child’s age, your work or study arrangements, your health, and what support you have around you. There is support available to help families understand their options and choose what works best for them.   

When childcare support may help   

You might look for childcare support if you need help with any of the following:  

• Balancing work, study or training  
• Managing caring responsibilities or disability  
• Supporting mental health or wellbeing  
• Navigating transition, relocation or changes in routine  
• Creating stability and routine for children   

There is no single right time to use childcare. Every family’s needs are different.   

Childcare and wellbeing  

Good childcare can give children a safe place to learn, play and build confidence. It can also make day-to-day life easier for parents and carers.  

• Reduce stress and mental load  
• Support participation in work, education or appointments  
• Allow time for rest, recovery or self-care  
• Help families maintain balance during busy or demanding periods  

For many families, childcare is not just about supervision. It can support the wellbeing of the whole family.   

Childcare in veteran and family life   

For veterans and families of veterans, childcare needs may come up during service-related injury or illness, transition from Defence, changes in work, relocation, or increased caring responsibilities.   

Flexible and accessible childcare can be especially helpful during times of change. It can help families create routine and reduce pressure.  

What support can look like  

Childcare support can include:  

• Centre-based childcare or early learning  
• Family day care or in-home care options  
• Occasional or short-term care  
• Support during periods of transition or increased need   

The best option will depend on your family’s needs, preferences and circumstances.   

Those needs may change over time.  

Getting support  

If you are exploring childcare options, these steps may help:  

• Learning about the different types of childcare available in your area  
• Talking with other parents, carers or family support services  
• Seeking support if childcare access is affecting your wellbeing, work or caring responsibilities  
• Asking for help to navigate options during times of change  

You can also get help from community services, government services such as Services Australia, or local childcare providers.  

Finding the right childcare can take time. You do not have to work it out on your own.   

Next steps  

• Compare childcare services in your area.  
• Check whether you may be eligible for Child Care Subsidy or Additional Child Care Subsidy.  
• Talk to a support service if childcare is affecting your wellbeing, work, study or caring responsibilities.   

Helpful resources  

These resources can help you find childcare, compare your options and understand costs.  

• Starting Blocks – Use this government website to find and compare childcare services, including fees, vacancies and quality ratings.  
• Services Australia – Child Care Subsidy – Learn who may be eligible for help with childcare fees, how much support may be available, and how to claim through their website.  
• Services Australia – Additional Child Care Subsidy – Find out about extra help with childcare costs in some situations, including temporary financial hardship, transition to work, grandparent care, or child wellbeing concerns.  
• Raising Children Network – Get practical advice on choosing childcare, comparing services and understanding different care options in Australia.  
• ACECQA – Learn what quality ratings mean and how childcare services in Australia are assessed.