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Childcare Costs in Darwin 2026, What Daycare Fees Really Cost in the NT

Wondering what childcare costs in Darwin in 2026? This guide covers average Darwin daycare fees, centre-based and family daycare costs, how the CCS works, and what to expect finding childcare in the Northern Territory.

By Darwin Daily · Published 20 July 2026

How we reported this

This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Darwin is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

Childcare Costs in Darwin 2026

Darwin's childcare market reflects the NT's high cost of living and unique demographic profile, a large government, defence, and public service workforce, significant Indigenous population with specific early childhood program needs, and a transient population (FIFO, ADF postings). Darwin has fewer centre options than southern capitals but a strong community-based early childhood sector. This guide covers what childcare costs in Darwin in 2026.

Average Childcare Fees in Darwin 2026

Long Day Care (city centre, Larrakeyah, Stuart Park): $130-$185/day before CCS
Long Day Care (Palmerston, Nightcliff, Casuarina): $110-$160/day before CCS
Before and After School Care (per session): $20-$38/session
Family Day Care (per hour): $9-$14/hour

Childcare Subsidy (CCS) in Darwin

Federal CCS applies in Darwin; maximum 90% subsidy for eligible families
NT Preschool and ECEC: The Northern Territory Government provides Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) programs for 4-year-olds in approved preschool settings; many Darwin-area childcare centres integrate NT preschool within their long day care programs
Remote Indigenous ECEC: The Australian Government provides significant additional funding for early childhood education in remote NT communities through specific NT programs beyond standard CCS

ADF Families in Darwin

Darwin has a very significant ADF population (Robertson Barracks, RAAF Darwin); ADF families have access to Defence Community Organisation (DCO) childcare support, including priority access to some Darwin-area childcare centres and additional subsidies under the ADF childcare support arrangements; ADF members should contact their DCO adviser for current entitlements

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.