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FAQs

We know families can have many questions when it comes to outside school hours care. From enrolments and bookings to Vacation Care, fees, and Child Care Subsidy (CCS), our FAQs are here to help make things simple and easy to understand. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our friendly team is always happy to help.

Your questions answered

Explore below for answers to our most commonly asked questions.

How much does OOSH cost?

We are committed to affordability, and most of your fees for OOSH will likely be covered by the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). You can learn more about fee’s by location on our Locations, Times & Fees page.

Is OOSH Child Care Subsidy (CSS) approved?

Yes. Families can access rebates of up to 95% through the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to help manage the cost of care.

Is food provided at OOSH?

We provide a free, healthy breakfast at before-school care and free afternoon tea at after-school care to ensure children are well-nourished and ready for their day.

Is OOSH a not-for-profit?

Yes, OOSH by Community Gateway is an externally accredited, registered charity formed in 1976. For 50 years, we have operated as a professional community resource for the Northern Rivers, providing grassroots welfare support and capacity-building services. As a not-for-profit, we strategically secure funds to deliver programs that improve personal and community capacities.

Is OOSH government accredited?

Yes, all of our OOSH services are externally accredited against the ACECQA National Quality Standard, demonstrating the high standard of care we uphold. Read more about our Policies, Standards and Assurances.

How do I enrol, manage bookings and pay?

We manage all enrolments, bookings and payments through the OWNA app. To start your enrolment simply click Enrol Now and you’ll be taken to the enrolment form.

Once submitted, we’ll process your enrolment and you’ll receive an email with details on how to create your OWNA account and download the app. Once setup, you’ll be able to manage your OOSH account, bookings and more in the OWNA app. Families can set up regular automatic payments or pay as they go.

Who can I contact if I’m having trouble paying?

Every family’s circumstances are different, and we are proud to support people experiencing financial hardship. We provide flexible payment options on a case-by-case basis. Reach out to us at oosh@nrcg.org.au or call 0429 640075.

What is your data privacy policy?

In order to meet all of our regulatory requirements, and to run our services safely and smoothly, we need to collect and store children’s and families’ information. All information provided to us is used and securely stored with complete confidentiality.

We take privacy seriously, so families can feel secure knowing their information will not be disclosed to any other party except when required by law. Information provided to us can be accessed and amended at any time through the OWNA app. Alternatively, requests can be made to any member of our staff.

Where can I submit feedback or a complaint about OOSH?

We value feedback from all our children, families and their communities. This helps us to understand what we’re doing well and where to improve our services. Families can provide feedback at any time through OWNA, directly to any member of our staff, or to our head office email at oosh@nrcg.org.au. If the matter is time sensitive, please call 0429 640075.

How do I cancel my enrolment?

Two weeks’ written notice is required to withdraw permanently from the service or to adjust permanent/routine booked days for before and after school care, vacation care and casual bookings. You can do this in the OWNA app, or by contacting our team via email oosh@nrcg.org.au. Where 2 weeks notice is not provided, you will be charged for the bookings.

Got another question?

Get your Vacation Club
bookings in now.

Get organised and make sure your kids are all sorted for an upcoming school holidays of fun, friends and enriching care.

Our booking system is open for all future sessions, so get in now to secure your spot.