Wollongong Parents: Navigate Childcare Costs and Subsidies Today

Childcare in Wollongong

Wollongong has a solid childcare sector that has grown to serve the Illawarra's population. Fees are below Sydney, and availability is generally better, though some popular Wollongong suburbs have waiting lists at preferred centres.

Types of Childcare

Long Day Care (LDC) is the main form for 0-5 year olds. Wollongong has university-affiliated care (UOW childcare on campus at North Wollongong), community-run centres, and private operators. The Illawarra's geography means centres are fairly distributed across the city and coastal strip.

Costs in Wollongong

Wollongong LDC fees typically range from $110-$150/day — below Sydney and closer to regional NSW rates. Suburbs like Figtree, Keiraville, and Wollongong City centre tend to be slightly higher. South Wollongong, Dapto, and Shellharbour are generally at the lower end.

Child Care Subsidy

Federal CCS applies — 90% for families under $80,000. Apply via myGov. UOW staff and students have priority at the campus childcare centre. Community childcare centres in the Illawarra are often run by neighbourhood associations and may prioritise local residents.

Finding Childcare in Wollongong

Starting Blocks (startingblocks.gov.au) covers all approved Illawarra services. Join multiple waitlists; popular centres near the CBD and university can have 6-18 month waits. The Wollongong City Council's community centres page lists some council-affiliated services.

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