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Childcare and Kindergarten in Perth 2026, Costs, Child Care Subsidy, WA Kindy, and How to Find a Centre Near You
Perth childcare guide 2026: how much long day care costs in Perth before and after the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), Western Australia kindergarten program, NQS ratings, and how to find a childcare centre near you in Perth.
How we reported this
Childcare and Kindergarten in Perth 2026
Perth has a large and competitive childcare market. Western Australia's kindergarten program is integrated into the school system, children attend Kindergarten at a public or private school in the year before Pre-primary (which is the first year of formal schooling in WA). education.wa.edu.au
How Much Does Childcare Cost in Perth 2026?
- Long day care (daily rate, before CCS), inner Perth, typically $148-$198/day
- Long day care (daily rate, before CCS), outer suburbs, typically $112-$162/day
- Family day care (daily rate, before CCS), typically $84-$132/day
- After CCS for median Perth family income, typically $18-$60/day (income-tested)
WA Kindergarten Program
In Western Australia, Kindergarten is a half-day program offered through schools for children aged 4 years. It is the year before Pre-primary (WA's Foundation/Prep equivalent). Many Perth families combine school-based Kindy with long day care for full working-day coverage. Search childcarefinder.gov.au for CCS-approved services and check NQS ratings. childcarefinder.gov.au
This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.