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Community Costs : Contents

Example child with temporary caregiver

In this example the Unsupported Childs Benefit rate has been used as a guide to what is a reasonable cost for caring for a child.

When the cost of childcare exceeds the amount calculated you can use your discretion to consider paying a higher rate.

Sole parent with 2 children aged 14 and 10 years has entered a treatment programme for 26 weeks. Their children have been placed with a temporary caregiver. The temporary caregiver has childcare costs that are in excess of family tax credit. Childcare costs amount to $280.00 a week.

Guide to reasonable cost

Actual cost

Unsupported Childs Benefit (as at 1 April 2026):

  • $350.58 for 14-year old and
  • $327.16 for 10-year old

$677.74

Childcare fees charged

$280.00

Less family tax credit (as at 1 April 2026):

  • $151.91 for first child and
  • $123.78 for second child

$275.69

Less family tax credit (as at 1 April 2026):

  • $151.91 for first child and
  • $123.78 for second child

$275.69

Equals

$402.05

Equals

$4.31

In this case you would consider including the lesser amount of $4.31 as a Community Cost.

For more information see:

Childcare costs

Legislation

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