Make room in the family budget
Find relevant support, plan known costs and explore borrowing before buying.
Reviewed 24 October 2026 · ParentCentral editorial
Look locally first
Programs differ across states and territories. Use the official government resource links on this page, then check age limits, concession requirements, application rounds and participating providers. A listing on ParentCentral is not a determination of eligibility or a promise that funding is available.
Record your next action
Save the program name, any document you still need and the date you plan to follow up. Keep application identifiers and sensitive documents somewhere appropriate rather than placing them in a shared browser. Check the provider’s current deadline each time you apply.
Spread the predictable costs
Uniforms, excursions and registration fees can cluster around the start of a term. List expected costs before deciding how much to set aside. Update estimates when you receive actual quotes, and separate planned amounts from payments already made.
Borrow, share and review
Toy libraries offer an alternative to buying every activity your child wants to try. Check membership fees, borrowing rules and return dates with your local library. Track what your child enjoyed before deciding whether a purchase would be worthwhile.