90,000 families tap three-day childcare guarantee as Albanese pursues universal
The three-day childcare guarantee has reached 90,000 families and saves eligible households $1,500 a year.
Anthony Albanese promised universal subsidised childcare would be his government's legacy. Labor has only delivered halfway there so far.
In January, the government introduced the three-day guarantee. The guarantee gives families access to three days of subsidised childcare per week.
Department figures show it has reached more than 90,000 extra families. For households earning up to $100,000, it saves around $1,500 a year.
Labor backbenchers are pushing the PM to complete the reform. This includes 22-year-old South Australian Senator Charlotte Walker.
The Treasurer warned in May that a fully universal system will take time. The Coalition is developing its own childcare policy.
It offers payments of $160 a fortnight to grandparents who care for grandchildren 20 hours or more weekly. It also includes tax cuts for single-income families.
A childcare showdown looms at the 2028 election.
- 90,000 extra families
- Families reached
- January 2026
- Launch date
Why it mattersFamilies already benefit from lower childcare costs. But getting to full universal access is not yet done. This issue will shape the next election campaign.
AustraliaOver 90,000 Australian families save $1,500 yearly under the current guarantee, but most families still lack fully subsidised childcare.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
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