Work out your weekly fee
Our full fee is $119 a day. Enter a few details to see an estimate of what you would pay after the Child Care Subsidy and NSW Start Strong fee relief.
This sets your Child Care Subsidy percentage.
Estimate only. The subsidy shown is what is paid during the year, after the government holds back 5% until tax time. You usually get that 5% back once your income is confirmed.
Book A TourHow our fees work
Sophie’s Cottage Kindergarten charges one simple fee of $119 a day for every child aged 3 to 6. The day runs from 8:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday, 52 weeks a year. We close only on public holidays.
Two types of government funding bring that fee down:
1. Child Care Subsidy
The Child Care Subsidy is paid by the Australian Government straight to us, and we take it off your fee. Families earning up to $88,520 a year receive 90%. The percentage drops by 1% for every $5,000 above that, and stops at $538,520. Every eligible family can get at least 72 hours of subsidised care a fortnight, even if a parent is not working. You apply through your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
2. NSW Start Strong fee relief
Start Strong is paid by the NSW Government on top of the Child Care Subsidy. In 2026 it is worth up to $1,783 a year for children aged 4 and over, and up to $423 a year for 3 year olds. Families with a concession card, and some other families, get a higher amount. We spread it across the year and take it off your fee each week. You can claim Start Strong at only one service at a time.
Worked examples
Three families, each with a 4 year old attending 3 days a week.
| Family income | Full fee per week | Child Care Subsidy | Start Strong | You pay per week |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $85,000 | $357.00 | 90% = $305.24 | $34.29 | $17.48 |
| $150,000 | $357.00 | 77% = $261.15 | $34.29 | $61.57 |
| $220,000 | $357.00 | 63% = $213.66 | $34.29 | $109.05 |
Examples use 2026-27 Child Care Subsidy rates and 2026 Start Strong amounts, and include the 5% the government holds back until tax time. Your own amount depends on your Centrelink assessment.
Common fee questions
How and when do I pay?
Fees are paid by direct debit. We bill 2 weeks in arrears, so you only pay for days already attended or booked. You pay just the gap after funding.
Is there a bond?
Yes, a $200 bond is paid on enrolment. It is credited back to you after your final invoice is paid.
How many days does my child need to attend?
Our Bee group (3 to 4 years) attends a minimum of 2 days a week. Our Butterfly group (4 to 6 years) attends a minimum of 3 days a week. Every booking includes a Monday or a Friday.
Do I pay for public holidays?
Please ask us about this when you tour, so we can explain how it works for your booked days.