Child care rebate whilst on maternity leave?

I know I've got a while to plan and organise things still, but I was wondering if anyone knew if being on maternity leave meets the work requirements for qualifying for the child care rebate? I'd like to keep DD in childcare 1 day a week whilst I'm on leave (as opposed to the 4 days whilst working) as she not only loves it but it'll make it easier to get spots when I go back to work and I want her to stay used to it. Anyway, if I will be paying the full price I'm not sure i could justify it as we will be on a lower wage.

Does anyone know?

I'm pretty sure that while you are on official mat leave (so up to a year) you can still claim it

Yep, definitely for 12 months as long as you are returning to work. I kept DS1 on child care while I was on mat leave mainly to keep the place but also to give Ds2 and I some one on one time. It was great.


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Yes, you are technically still employed and on leave so you can still claim provided you are planning to return to work.

Thanks everyone. I'll definitely be returning to work, we not only need the money but I do really enjoy my job.