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Childcare and Kindergarten on the Sunshine Coast 2026, Costs, Child Care Subsidy, QLD Free Kindy, and How to Find a Centre Near You
Sunshine Coast childcare guide 2026: how much long day care costs on the Sunshine Coast before and after the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), Queensland Free Kindy for 4-year-olds, and how to find a childcare centre near you on the Sunshine Coast.
How we reported this
Childcare and Kindergarten on the Sunshine Coast 2026
The Sunshine Coast has a rapidly growing childcare market driven by the region's strong population growth. Queensland's Free Kindy program provides 15 hours per week for eligible 4-year-olds at approved Sunshine Coast services. Demand is high in fast-growing areas like Aura (Caloundra West), Maroochydore, and Sippy Downs. qld.gov.au
How Much Does Childcare Cost on the Sunshine Coast 2026?
- Long day care (daily rate, before CCS), typically $128-$175/day
- Family day care (daily rate, before CCS), typically $85-$134/day
- After CCS for median Sunshine Coast family income, typically $14-$53/day (income-tested)
QLD Free Kindy on the Sunshine Coast
Queensland's Free Kindy provides 15 hours per week for eligible 4-year-olds at approved Sunshine Coast services. The Sunshine Coast's population growth has increased demand for childcare places, some popular centres have waitlists. Registering early (even before birth) at preferred centres is advisable. Search childcarefinder.gov.au to find approved services and check NQS ratings. childcarefinder.gov.au
This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.