Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) Subsidy
Out of School Care and Recreation (OSCAR) Subsidy is a payment which helps families with the costs of before- and after-school programmes, and school holiday programmes.
It helps with the costs of before- and after-school programmes for up to 20 hours a week, and school holiday programmes of up to 50 hours a week.
Who can get it
You may get an OSCAR Subsidy if you:
- are the main carer of a dependent child
- don’t have a partner who can provide childcare
- are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
It also depends on how much you and your spouse or partner earn.
The child or young person must be:
- aged five to 13 years old (or up to 18 years if you get a Child Disability Allowance for them)
- attending an approved OSCAR programme for three or more hours a week.
The child should also normally live in New Zealand.
This information is a guide only. Please contact us to talk about your individual circumstances.
How much you can get
This depends on your circumstances.
You can estimate the amount of OSCAR Subsidy you may be entitled to by using the calculator on the Working for Families website.
What are the benefits of choosing an OSCAR approved programme
The OSCAR Standards provide reassurance to parents and caregivers that a programme is properly run and takes place in a safe environment for children. In addition, parents and caregivers may qualify for an OSCAR Subsidy. Parents of children attending unapproved programmes cannot receive an OSCAR Subsidy.
For more information
You may like to read the following:
Help with childcare costs
A guide for parents and caregivers
Manuals and procedures
For more detail about the Childcare Subsidy.
How to apply
You can apply by:
- calling the Working for Families contact centre on 0800 774 004
- completing the online application form
- downloading and completing the application form below
- contacting us.
Childcare & OSCAR Subsidy Application Form (PDF 237.59KB)
Complete this form to apply for the Childcare & OSCAR subsidy.
OSCAR Subsidy - Additional School Holiday Programme Application Form (PDF 74.88KB)
Complete this form if your child is attending more than one programme during the school holidays.
Childcare & OSCAR Subsidy - Change of Circumstances form (PDF 87.24KB)
If you are receiving childcare and OSCAR assistance, you must tell us straight away any changes which could affect your payment.