Childcare & Early Learning franchises in Australia
5 Childcare & Early Learning systems on file (3 with published fees). Q3 2026 Fee Index: a median all-in cost of $762,000–$4,900,000 (3 systems).
Explore & Develop
From $500,000 all-in.
Montessori Academy Franchise Group
60 units across Australia.
Filter childcare & early learning franchises by state, or sort them by cost
Explore & Develop
Moombaki Early Learning
Montessori Academy Franchise Group
Mother Duck Childcare
Buying a childcare & early learning franchise: what to know
How does a childcare & early learning franchise work?
A childcare or early-learning franchise operates a licensed centre under a national brand and curriculum, funded by fees and, for families, government subsidies. It is a highly regulated, staff-intensive business where occupancy (how full the centre is) and educator ratios drive the economics. The franchisor supplies the brand, systems, compliance framework and often help with site selection.
How much does a childcare & early learning franchise cost?
Childcare is capital-intensive: a compliant building fit-out, outdoor space, equipment and licensing, or a large lease for a purpose-built centre. Working capital must cover wages (the dominant cost) until occupancy builds. The current Q3 2026 Fee Index median all-in is $762,000–$4,900,000 across the 3 childcare & early learning systems that publish a cost.
Are childcare & early learning franchises profitable?
No verified public dataset of Australian childcare-franchisee earnings exists. Results depend on occupancy versus fixed staffing and rent, and on regulatory compliance. Ask for occupancy and staffing figures at comparable centres, and have an accountant and a lawyer review the numbers and the regulatory obligations against the disclosure document.
What to check before you buy a childcare & early learning franchise
- Occupancy at comparable centres and the local supply of places.
- Educator-to-child ratios and the wage bill they require.
- Regulatory and licensing obligations, and who holds the approvals.
- Lease or building cost, the largest fixed commitment.
General guidance, not financial advice. Confirm every figure with the franchisor and the disclosure document, and see how to buy a franchise.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Childcare & Early Learning franchise cost in Australia?
Across the Childcare & Early Learning systems that publish their costs, the Q3 2026 Fee Index shows a median all-in cost of $762,000–$4,900,000 (3 systems). Always confirm the all-in figure, including working capital, in the disclosure document.
How many Childcare & Early Learning franchises are there in Australia?
5 Childcare & Early Learning franchise systems are on file at FranchiseScope, 3 of them with published fees. The largest by network is Montessori Academy Franchise Group with 60 units.
Which Childcare & Early Learning franchise has an open territory near me?
Systems currently recruiting show their open states in the list above. Use our location reports to see which areas have the least childcare & early learning competition before you enquire.
Are Childcare & Early Learning franchises profitable in Australia?
There is no published, verified dataset of Australian childcare & early learning franchisee earnings, so treat any "average profit" claim with caution. Profitability depends on your costs, location, pricing and hours, plus the royalty and marketing levy. Ask the franchisor for the basis of any income figure, speak to current franchisees, and have an accountant review it against the disclosure document.