Defence families can face challenges securing childcare when posting to a new location or changing work or care arrangements.
The options provided may assist Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families in accessing and securing suitable childcare services.
In an emergency or crisis, Defence may fund short-term in-home care for children. To discuss your individual situation, call the Defence Member and Family Helpline.
Defence childcare centres
To help meet the needs of Defence families who are looking for childcare as they relocate, Defence operates 16 long day care centres and 3 out-of-school hours care centres located on or near ADF bases across the country. ADF members receive priority access at these centres.
One Tree Community Services manage the Defence childcare centres. The service provider bases its childcare fees on a user pays system. Childcare fees are the sole responsibility of the Defence family who use the services.
Placement of children at a centre is based on a priority system.
Childcare priority access guidelines (PDF, 174.17 KB)
Contact the Defence Member and Family Helpline to assess eligibility.
Childcare Connect
One Tree Community Services (OTCS) offers a free service called Childcare Connect. This service is designed to help Defence families find appropriate childcare, especially after relocating.
Childcare Connect considers individual needs and will engage with local registered childcare providers to provide available solutions, including:
- long daycare
- family daycare
- the Australian Government In-Home Care Support Agencies
- before and after school care
- vacation care.
Additionally, OTCS can provide information on unregistered informal care providers
If ADF families are finding it difficult to secure childcare in a new location, they can find out more about Childcare Connect by contacting the Defence Member and Family Helpline.
Self-search
Families may choose to self-search for childcare in their local area.
When searching for childcare, playgroups, parents' groups and other local support networks, families can visit the Starting Blocks website.