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Childcare Costs in Wollongong 2026, What Daycare Fees Really Cost in the Illawarra NSW

Wondering what childcare costs in Wollongong in 2026? This guide covers average Illawarra daycare fees, centre-based and family daycare costs, how the CCS works, and practical tips for finding childcare in the Wollongong region.

By Wollongong Daily · Published 20 July 2026

How we reported this

This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Wollongong is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

Childcare Costs in Wollongong 2026

Wollongong and the Illawarra have a well-developed childcare sector serving the region's large university community (University of Wollongong), BlueScope Steel and manufacturing workforce, and growing professional population from Sydney migration. Inner Wollongong and Fairy Meadow have the highest demand and fees; Shellharbour, Kiama, and outer Wollongong suburbs are more moderate. This guide covers what childcare costs in Wollongong in 2026.

Average Childcare Fees in Wollongong 2026

Long Day Care (inner Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, Figtree): $115-$160/day before CCS
Long Day Care (Shellharbour, Warilla, Oak Flats): $100-$140/day before CCS
Long Day Care (Kiama, Jamberoo, Berry, Shoalhaven fringe): $95-$135/day before CCS
Before and After School Care (per session): $18-$34/session
Family Day Care (per hour): $8-$12/hour

Childcare Subsidy (CCS) in Wollongong

Federal CCS applies; maximum 90% subsidy for eligible families
NSW funded preschool (600 hours/year for 3 and 4-year-olds) is available at approved Illawarra providers; many Wollongong long day care centres deliver the NSW funded preschool program, reducing out-of-pocket costs significantly for those sessions

University of Wollongong (UOW) Families

The University of Wollongong operates or has specific arrangements with childcare providers for student and staff families; UoW students should check with the university's student support services for childcare information, concession rates, and any on-campus or affiliated childcare options

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.

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