HOW MUCH CAN I EARN?   This is probably the most asked question from prospective carers - and so it should be! Carers set their own fees and the co-ordinators of Brisbane North Family Day Care can give you information about the current range of fees as a guide. When you care for 4 children under school age every day Monday to Friday, you can expect a weekly income of $750 or more. Your income will vary according to the number of children you care for and the hours of care they have. You can increase your income by working in the evenings or on the weekends. The Child Care Legislation states that you can care for up to seven children at a time, but no more than four of these children can be under school age (this must include your own children). The number of school-age children does not include your own.    WHAT ABOUT TAX? Brisbane North Family Day Care Carers are self-employed and responsible for their own tax records. Because Carers work in their own homes, they have great tax advantages that employees do not have. These  increase the carer´s disposable income. There are many things that can be claimed as tax deductions including cleaning products, consumables, toys, electricity, general repairs and maintenance etc. We recommend you seek professional advice from an accountant who has knowledge of family day care.    WHAT COST IS INVOLVED IN BECOMING A CARER WITH BRISBANE NORTH FAMILY DAY CARE? (Remember all of these costs are tax deductible.) Current Blue Card $60 (No cost for other members of the household) Public Liability Insurance approximately $450 to $550 per year (this equates to less than $2 per day). Senior First Aid & CPR Certificate Any modifications to your home Maybe purchase of some toys (the “tools of the trade”) Carers pay a levy to the scheme once they begin caring for children.  Prospective carers may be eligible for the Family Day Care Start Up Payment of up to $1500.