Professional Development Subsidy to Support National Child Safety Training

The Federal Department of Education has confirmed an update to the Professional Development Subsidy, providing support to Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) providers to help cover wage costs while staff complete National Child Safety Training.

The subsidy helps cover wage costs for staff completing the training, providing funding for up to 5 hours per eligible employee. Services can use this to backfill staff during work hours or pay staff to complete training outside their usual hours.

All CCS-approved providers can apply on behalf of eligible staff who work directly with or supervise children, including educators, teachers and directors, provided they meet the required criteria.

The subsidy will be a flat daily rate, based on current award rates and includes a 25% casual loading.

The rates above are current as of 1 March 2026 and is not intended to cover the full cost of wages. According to the Department of Education, Providers are responsible for any additional wage or employment on costs above the subsidy amount.

Round 1 application open on 28 April 2026 and close on 3 July 2026, with funding limited and prioritised towards smaller providers (operating fewer than 25 services), on a first come first served basis. Large providers’ applications will only be considered if funding remains available.

Applications for 2026-27 will be processed in two rounds, with the second round only opening if funding is still available after the first round.

You can access the ACA NSW FAQ's here. (Please ensure you use your ACA NSW members' username and password to access FAQ's)

For any further information/clarification, members can contact ACA NSW via 1300 556 330 or nsw@childcarealliance.org.au. 

PUBLISHED: 23 APRIL 2026