How should childcare centres communicate fee changes?

A fee change is easier to understand when families receive the decision, reason, timing and practical effect in one clear communication.

Before announcing the change, confirm:

• the approved fee and effective date;
• any notice requirements in enrolment agreements, funding conditions or applicable law;
• affected sessions, rooms or services;
• changes to inclusions or extra charges;
• website, software and direct-debit updates;
• who will answer family questions.

A useful notice should state:

1. the current fee;
2. the new fee;
3. the effective date;
4. what the fee includes;
5. a concise explanation of the reason;
6. where families can see the full schedule;
7. how CCS may affect the gap, without promising an individual outcome;
8. who to contact for support.

Use exact dollar figures rather than only a percentage increase. Publish the total unavoidable price clearly; ACCC guidance requires minimum total price displays and prohibits misleading claims. ^R9R10

Do not attribute the whole increase to one external factor unless that is accurate and substantiated. If wages, rent, food, insurance, compliance and program investment all contributed, say so plainly without turning the letter into a defensive cost breakdown.

Update every channel on the correct date: website, family app, fee estimator, enrolment documents, direct-debit settings and Starting Blocks where relevant.

Suggested opening:

From Monday 7 September 2026, the daily fee for the toddler room will change from $188 to $195. The new fee continues to include meals, nappies and scheduled excursions. Families will receive at least the notice required under their enrolment agreement.

This guide is operational guidance, not legal advice. Check the service’s specific requirements.

Practical next step: run a pre-publication checklist with operations, finance and family communications so every figure and date matches.

Related guides

• Should childcare centres show fees online?
• How should childcare centres explain costs after Child Care Subsidy?
• Why can a family’s gap fee be higher than its CCS percentage suggests?