If mainstream childcare is not an option, or not suitable for your family, In Home Care might be the flexible solution you need.
In Home Care offers a specialised form of education and childcare for families unable to utilise family day care or centre-based day care due to unique circumstances.
This service provides an educator to care for children in the comfort of their own home, catering to families:
- Facing challenging or complex needs, such as having a family member with a disability or serious illness
- Living in geographically isolated areas without access to other childcare options
- Working non-standard hours.
Defining Challenging or Complex Needs:
- A child with additional needs or a disability whose early childhood education and care requirements cannot be met in other approved childcare settings or through government-funded or community-based services
- A family where a parent is receiving treatment for a serious illness
- Other complex family situations that make it difficult to access other approved childcare types.
Check if you’re eligible here. https://nswihc.org.au/in-home-care/
Cost of In Home Care
Families utilising In Home Care services are generally eligible for the Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy. This subsidy is paid directly to In Home Care providers to lower the cost for families needing an educator in their home. The subsidy amount is based on the family’s income level. Additionally, families with special needs may qualify for the Additional Child Care Subsidy.
Availability of Care
The amount of In Home Care a family can receive varies based on their needs and budget, ranging from a few days a week to daily care.
An In Home Care educator can look after up to five children from a single family. If there are more than five children, a second educator can be hired.
Application Process
To apply for In Home Care, families must go through Coffs Coast Family Care, which assesses eligibility and connects them with a suitable service provider.