Childcare benefit and rebate

The Australian Government Centrelink Childcare Benefit  external_link_icon (CCB) is a payment made to families to assist with childcare costs. CCB families are also eligible to claim Childcare Rebate external_link_icon (CCR), a further entitlement of up to 50% rebate for out-of-pocket childcare fees expenses.

Before using childcare you need a Customer Reference Number (CRN):

  1. obtain a CRN through the Family Assistance Office external_link_icon (FAO) – located at Centrelink  Customer Service Centres and Medicare Australia shop fronts or by using online services external_link_icon
  2. provide us with all your CRNs – both parents and those of each child being enrolled as each CRN is different; details must be exactly as provided to FAO: names spelling, dates of birth and same surnames
  3. we submit this information which links you, our Centre, Centrelink and the FAO – see also, privacy statement

Contact the Family Assistance Office (FAO)

Obtain a Customer Reference Number

Before using childcare you’ll need a Customer Reference Number

To apply to the FAO for CCB and CCR, parents can call 8am – 8pm, Monday – Friday:

Telephone: 13 61 50
TTY 1800 810 586

Languages other than English: 13 12 02

Online: Family Assistance Office online services external_link_icon

NOTE: Applications assessed by FAO will determine your entitlements which can only be backdated 28 days so contact FAO promptly.

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