NZ OSCAR Subsidy Offers Up to $6.38/Hour: Balancing work, study, and parenting is no easy task. For many New Zealand families, finding affordable, safe, and accessible childcare before or after school—and during holidays—is a challenge that impacts their daily lives. Fortunately, the OSCAR Subsidy (Out of School Care and Recreation) is available to ease this burden. In 2025, eligible families can receive up to $6.38 per hour per child to help cover childcare costs outside regular school hours.
This article breaks down everything you need to know about the OSCAR Subsidy, from eligibility requirements and payment amounts to the application process and how to ensure you’re receiving the maximum benefit. Whether you’re a single parent working night shifts, a full-time student, or caring for a child with special needs, the OSCAR Subsidy can make a real difference.
NZ OSCAR Subsidy Offers Up to $6.38/Hour
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Subsidy Name | OSCAR Subsidy (Out of School Care and Recreation) |
| Hourly Rate | Up to $6.38 per hour (as of April 2024) |
| Weekly Coverage | Up to 20 hours/week (school term); 50 hours/week (school holidays) |
| Eligibility | Based on caregiver’s activity, family income, and child’s age |
| Child’s Age Range | 5–13 years (up to 18 with Child Disability Allowance) |
| Program Type | Before/after school care and school holiday programs |
| Application Method | Form submission to Work and Income NZ (WINZ) |
| Processing Time | 3–4 weeks prior to care start date recommended |
| Official Site | Work and Income NZ – OSCAR |
For New Zealand parents balancing employment and family life, the OSCAR Subsidy is an essential financial support tool. It not only makes childcare more affordable but ensures that children are in safe, enriching environments while caregivers work, study, or manage personal health needs.
By offering up to $6.38 per hour per child, and covering up to 50 hours per week during school holidays, this subsidy provides peace of mind and economic relief to thousands of Kiwi families. If you think you qualify, don’t wait—apply now and secure the support your family deserves. Visit the official OSCAR Subsidy page or call 0800 559 009 for help.
What Is the OSCAR Subsidy?
The OSCAR Subsidy is a government-funded program offered by Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ) to support families with the cost of before and after-school care, as well as school holiday childcare. The goal is to enable parents and guardians to stay in the workforce, study, or attend training while ensuring their children are looked after in a safe, structured environment.
The subsidy is paid directly to approved OSCAR programs and covers a portion of the hourly fee. Depending on your income and family size, you could receive the full hourly rate or a partial subsidy.
Who Is Eligible for the OSCAR Subsidy?
To qualify for the OSCAR Subsidy, families must meet certain residency, activity, and income criteria. Below is a breakdown of the key eligibility factors:
1. Residency Requirements:
- You must be living in New Zealand
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, or hold a residency class visa
2. Child Eligibility:
- The child must be aged 5–13 (up to 18 if receiving the Child Disability Allowance)
- Must be attending a school-based program approved by OSCAR
- Must reside in New Zealand and be cared for a minimum of 3 hours per week in the program
3. Caregiver Activity Requirements:
The caregiver must be:
- Working (including night shifts)
- In training or studying
- Seeking work or attending interviews
- Participating in an MSD-directed activity
- Sick or disabled, or caring for a child in hospital or one receiving the Child Disability Allowance
4. Income Limits:
Your household income must fall within WINZ’s thresholds. These are based on family size and gross income. For example:
- 1 child: Income under $1,400/week may receive the full subsidy
- 2 children: Higher income threshold applies
- Income thresholds are adjusted annually
Check your eligibility using the MSD calculator
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on your income and how many children you have. As of April 2024, the maximum subsidy is:
- $6.38/hour per child
- Up to 20 hours/week during school term
- Up to 50 hours/week during school holidays
If your OSCAR program charges $7.50/hour and you’re eligible for the full subsidy, WINZ will pay $6.38/hour and you’ll pay the $1.12 difference.
Payments go directly to the approved OSCAR provider.
Types of OSCAR Programs Covered
The subsidy only applies to childcare providers that are part of the approved OSCAR network. This includes:
- Before-school programs (e.g., 7:30–9:00 am)
- After-school care (e.g., 3:00–6:00 pm)
- Holiday programs (full or half-day)
- Some church and community-run childcare programs
Ensure your chosen provider is OSCAR-approved before applying. A full list of providers is available through MSD’s site.
NZ OSCAR Subsidy Offers Up to $6.38/Hour Apply for the OSCAR Subsidy Guide
Applying for the subsidy is simple but must be done before your child begins care.
- Get the Application Form: Download and print the Childcare Assistance application form: Download PDF
- Complete Your Section: Include,
- Your personal and financial details
- IRD number
- Proof of income (payslips or benefit statements)
- Get Provider Section Completed: Your childcare provider must,
- Be OSCAR-approved
- Fill out their section of the form confirming enrolment and fees
- Submit to Work and Income: Drop the form off at a Work and Income office or mail it. Online submission is not currently supported.
- Await Processing: It can take up to 3–4 weeks to process, so apply early. Once approved, the subsidy will begin from the date of application, not the date care started.
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Real-Life Example: How the Subsidy Helps
Case Study: Emma, Single Parent in Wellington Emma works full-time and has two children aged 6 and 10. During term time:
- Her kids attend an OSCAR-approved after-school care program from 3:00–5:30 pm
- The program charges $7/hour per child
- She qualifies for the full subsidy
Her OSCAR Subsidy Benefits:
- 2.5 hours x 5 days/week x 2 kids = 25 hours/week
- $6.38 x 25 hours = $159.50/week covered by WINZ
- Emma pays the remaining gap ($28.00/week)
This allows her to continue working full-time without stress or financial hardship.
FAQs On NZ OSCAR Subsidy Offers Up to $6.38/Hour
Q1: Can I receive the subsidy for multiple children?
Yes! You can apply for as many eligible children as needed. Each is assessed individually.
Q2: Can I apply if I’m self-employed?
Yes. You’ll need to provide proof of business income and hours worked.
Q3: Is the subsidy taxable?
No. OSCAR Subsidy payments are non-taxable and won’t affect other benefit entitlements.
Q4: Can I switch OSCAR providers?
Yes, but notify Work and Income and complete an updated provider form.
Q5: What happens if my income changes?
You must report any income change. Your subsidy may increase, decrease, or stay the same.
