We tried all three arrangements across two kids, so here's the honest comparison. Infant care with the government subsidy came to roughly 700 to 1,000 a month for us as a working couple, and the structure was great for the baby's routine and socialisation, but the constant sickness in the first six months was real, we were down at KKH or the PD every other week. Grandparents are free and loving but we found it strained the relationship fast, my mum had her own methods and got exhausted caring for an infant at 68. A helper at around 700 salary plus levy and food gives the most flexibility and covers housework too, but you're bringing a stranger into your home and managing an employee. In the end we did helper plus a bit of grandparent support on weekends, and that combination gave us the most sustainable balance, that's what I'd tell any new parent to seriously consider.