Cyclone Alfred is bearing down on south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales, and although we’re crossing fingers (and toes) that this natural event isn’t a full-blown disaster, there is news at hand.  

The government has just declared a Child Care Subsidy (CCS) period of emergency in 15 Local Government Areas in QLD and NSW, and this means support is available to families (and childcare services) impacted by Alfred.  

The CCS period of emergency for this tropical cyclone applies from 5 March to 13 March 2025. 

And whether you’re in Alfred’s path, or worry about an emergency in your future, here’s a quick run-down on what a CCS period of emergency means for childcare families.   

The first thing to know is that a CCS period of emergency isn’t something the government takes lightly. 

They won’t declare this period of emergency for a passing storm or a minor flood, but full-on events, like cyclones, floods or bushfires can lead to a declaration.  

The government explains that CCS period of emergency may be declared if an event: 

• Affects a widespread area 

• Has a severe impact on the lives of lots of people in that area, and  

• Stops children from attending their service, or could make childcare attendance dangerous.  
  
  

Once the government declares a CCS period of emergency, as they have with Cyclone Alfred, there is support available during and after the emergency.  

For families, a CCS period of emergency means that the usual gap fee can be waived if a child doesn’t go to childcare during the emergency, or their service is closed because of it. 

A CCS period of emergency also means that affected families will get unlimited allowable absences for the duration of the emergency.  

Usually, families get up to 42 allowable absence days per child, per financial year. However, extra allowable absences will be given to children who live in, or go to a childcare service, in the impacted area. 

This means families can keep getting the CCS when they’re charged for a session of care their child cannot attend.  

The emergency absences will be allocated automatically in the CCS system, so there’s no need to apply, and some families will be able to get extra allowable absences straight after the emergency ends.  

If a family has used up their allowable absences for the financial year, they can get extra absences: 

• For 28 days after the end of the CCS period of emergency, if a child can’t attend childcare, or 

• For seven days after the end of the emergency period, if a family decides the child shouldn’t attend.  
  
  

There is also help available if the passing emergency has ongoing effects.  

There are payments for people directly affected by natural disasters, and if an emergency means that a family has real trouble paying their childcare fees, then they may be eligible for the Additional Child Care Subsidy Temporary Financial Hardship.  

You can read more about this subsidy here. 

Keep in mind, too, that whatever happens with Cyclone Alfred or another impending emergency, preparation is key.  

The Get Ready Queensland and Emergencies in NSW online content is helpful for families who are facing a big weather event, and knowledge is definitely power.  

Make sure you stay up-to-date with important info provided by your childcare service, the government and trusted media outlets.  

Check that your CCS details are current, and take every possible measure to stay safe. 

We’re sending positive thoughts to everyone in Cyclone Alfred’s path, and although this is a worrying time, it’s good to know the government has your back.