Childcare cost income exemption - sole parents

There is an additional $20.00 per week income exemption for a sole parent who is receiving Jobseeker Support when they have to pay childcare costs while they are working.

It is not necessary for the child to attend an approved childcare centre, private arrangements can be accepted.

Entitlement to a Childcare Subsidy or OSCAR must be assessed first. If the total cost of childcare is not covered by the subsidy the client can receive the additional income exemption.

The exemption would be the lesser of:

• the amount the client pays for childcare or
• the cost of childcare not covered by a subsidy or
• $20.00 per week

The exemption only applies for the weeks the sole parent pays for childcare while they are working.