Absences
Most providers charge a fee when a child is temporarily away. The fee is charged to hold the child's place open at the service or centre.
MSD can pay the Childcare Subsidy for up to 3 weeks at any one time when a child is away from the service or centre and the period of absence coincides with the time the programme is available.
This can occur more than one time in the client's review year. However, if a child is consistently absent their hours of attendance should be reviewed to ensure that the subsidy paid reflects this.
Medical exceptions
Payment can continue for up to 6 weeks if the child is absent due to their medical condition and the period of absence coincides with the time the programme is available.
For example, if the child has a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner, or nurse practitioner stating they need to be away from the centre for longer than 3 weeks.
A medical certificate is not required if the child gets:
- Child Disability Allowance or
- Group Special Education funding
This can occur more than once in the client's review year. However, if a child is consistently absent, their hours of attendance should be reviewed to ensure that the subsidy paid reflects this.
For more information see:
Legislation
- Payment of assistance during child's absence regulation 28 Social Security Regulations 2018
