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Childcare and Kindergartens in Wollongong 2026, How to Find the Best Childcare Near You
Wollongong childcare guide 2026: how to find quality long day care, preschool and kindergarten in Wollongong and the Illawarra, plus the NSW Start Strong program, CCS and waitlist tips.
How we reported this
Childcare and Kindergartens in Wollongong 2026
Wollongong's childcare market has grown with the city's population, particularly as Sydney workers have relocated for more affordable housing. The Illawarra region's proximity to Sydney means many families balance Wollongong living with Sydney working arrangements, making flexible childcare options especially important. education.nsw.gov.au/early-childhood-education
Types of Childcare in Wollongong
- Long Day Care (LDC), centre-based care for children 6 weeks to 6 years. Wollongong average daily fees: $105-$140 before subsidy. Highest demand areas: Wollongong CBD surrounds, Corrimal, Figtree and Fairy Meadow.
- NSW Preschool (Start Strong), the NSW government funds a minimum of 600 hours per year of preschool for 4-year-olds at approved services across Wollongong and the Illawarra. Some 3-year-old Start Strong places are also available. education.nsw.gov.au
- Family Day Care, available across Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven. Often a more accessible option in outer Illawarra suburbs. familydaycare.com.au
- Outside School Hours Care, before and after school care at Wollongong's public and private primary schools. CCS eligible. servicesaustralia.gov.au
Find Childcare in Wollongong
Search approved Wollongong and Illawarra services at childcarefinder.gov.au. University of Wollongong staff and students have access to UOW Early Start childcare on campus. earlystart.uow.edu.au
This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.