Your end of year child care checklist
The last few months of the year fly by. Between end of year concerts, Christmas shopping and wrapping up at work, it's easy to forget that January is only a few weeks away, and with it a new childcare year.
A little organisation now can save a lot of stress later, especially if your little one is starting care for the first time, moving rooms or heading off to big school. The first job on the list is making sure their place for next year is locked in.
Your end of year childcare checklist at a glance:
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A little organisation now can save a lot of stress later, especially if your little one is starting care for the first time, moving rooms or heading off to big school. The first job on the list is making sure their place for next year is locked in.
1. Enrol your child and get them ready to start childcare in January
If your child is starting childcare in January, secure their place now, check the paperwork is complete and confirm their start date with the centre. Then spend the last weeks of the year helping your child get familiar with the people, places and routines they'll meet. Staying organised on childcare waitlists makes it easier to keep track of where you've applied.
Once the admin is sorted, these steps can help your child feel ready:
- Visit together and meet the educators. Ask for a copy of the daily routine and family handbook, and find out what your child needs to bring each day.
- Share what makes your child tick. Let educators know about comfort toys, allergies or intolerances, favourite activities and anything that helps your child settle.
- Practise the routine at home. Gently shifting meals, play and naps towards the centre's schedule can make the first weeks easier.
- Talk about it positively. Mention their educator by name and chat about the fun things they'll do.
- Start with shorter days. Building up hours and days over a few weeks is a gentle way of settling into childcare. If you'll need flexible hours at work to do this, it's worth asking your employer before the Christmas break.
2. Re-enrol your child and confirm next year's childcare days
Many centres ask families to confirm next year's enrolment and days towards the end of the year. If your centre hasn't been in touch, follow up with them to make sure your child's place is secure. It's also the best time to change days if your work or family routine is shifting in the new year.
3. Book before and after school care and vacation care early
Book outside school hours care (OSHC) as early as possible, ideally before the end of term 4. Services won't automatically roll your child into next year's sessions, and places at popular services fill fast. The same goes for vacation care over the summer holidays, if you'll need it.
4. Claim the Child Care Subsidy if you're new to childcare
If you're new to childcare, you'll need to claim the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) through your Centrelink online account, linked to myGov. The subsidy isn't applied automatically, so start your claim well before your child's first day.
How much you receive depends on your family income and the type of care you use. Since January 2026, the 3 Day Guarantee means all CCS-eligible families can get at least 72 hours of subsidised care a fortnight for each child, regardless of work or study hours.
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5. Confirm your child's childcare enrolment in myGov
The CCS can only be paid once you've confirmed your child's enrolment in your Centrelink account. Your centre submits the enrolment, then you log in and confirm it.
You'll need to confirm a new enrolment if your child is starting at a new service, or if they haven't attended their current service for 14 weeks in a row. It's worth checking your account in December, so there are no surprises with your first January invoice.
6. Report changes that affect your Child Care Subsidy
You need to report certain changes within 14 days to make sure you're paid the right amount and avoid a debt at the end of the financial year. Update your details if:
- your child is starting primary school for the first time
- your or your partner's income has changed
- your or your partner's activity has changed, such as work or study hours
- your care arrangements or personal circumstances have changed
- you've moved house
You don't need to report changes to the hours your child attends care.
7. Check your child's vaccinations are up to date
To receive the CCS, your child must be up to date with their vaccinations, be on an approved catch-up schedule, or have an approved medical exemption. If your child falls behind, you have 63 days to catch up before the subsidy stops.
The end of the year is a good time to check your child's record and book any overdue vaccinations. Some states also have their own rules for enrolling, so it helps to know the vaccination rules for childcare in Australia where you live. If your child is starting school, a health and dental check before term 1 is also a good idea.
8. Prepare your child for a new room at childcare
Many children move to a new room with new educators at the start of the year, as they move up an age group. Ask your centre whether your child is changing rooms, and if so, arrange a visit or two before the break so the new space and faces feel familiar. It's also a chance to share your child's needs and interests with their new educators.
9. Help your child get ready for the move to primary school
The move to big school is a big milestone, and your child's educators are a great source of advice. They can suggest books to read and skills to practise over summer, and help if you're unsure whether your child is ready. Spend the holidays building independence, like opening lunchboxes and managing shoes, and sort out uniforms and school supplies early.
Before your child's last day at childcare, remember to:
- check for any exit paperwork or notice periods
- collect artwork, portfolios and belongings your child wants to keep
- swap details with other families, especially those heading to the same school
- say a heartfelt thank you to the educators who have cared for your child
Why is it worth getting your childcare sorted before the new year?
Getting your childcare admin sorted in November and December means you can enjoy the holidays and start the new year feeling calm. Enrolments, subsidy details and vaccinations take only a little time now, and they make January much smoother for everyone.
And if you're heading out to celebrate the end of the year, the Care for Kids babysitter search can help you find someone to mind the kids.
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FAQs
Do childcare centres close over Christmas?
Many childcare centres close for a week or two over Christmas and New Year, while others stay open apart from public holidays. Opening dates vary between services, so check your centre's holiday calendar early and plan backup care if you'll be working.
Do I have to pay childcare fees while my child is on holiday?
Usually, yes. Most centres charge for booked days even when your child is away. The Child Care Subsidy can cover up to 42 absence days per child each financial year, as long as your child would normally have attended care on those days.
What is a good end of year gift for childcare educators?
A handwritten card or drawing from your child is often the most treasured gift. Many families also pool together for a group gift, like a voucher or a hamper for the staff room, which is a simple way to say thank you without a big spend.
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