How we chose the top 3
Every centre was assessed against five criteria: NQS rating independently assessed by the Victorian regulatory authority, fee transparency verified against the Starting Blocks database, parent satisfaction drawn from KindiCare, CareForKids and Toddle, program quality including curriculum approach and educator qualifications, and practical value including hours, inclusions and Free Kinder access.
We do not accept payment from any centre to appear on this list. Our rankings are independent.
Quick fee comparison
Shirley Robertson
$137.80
Not-for-profit
The Learning Space
$188.00
Boutique
Pelican Childcare
$200.30
Full inclusions
Coburg average: $175.37/day before CCS. All three centres are CCS approved. Fees current as of March 2026: confirm directly with each centre.
About childcare in Coburg
Coburg is a diverse inner-northern suburb located within the City of Merri-bek, approximately 9 kilometres north of Melbourne's CBD. The suburb has a strong multicultural community and attracts a broad demographic of young families, professionals and long-term residents. Its proximity to the CBD, access to train services and Sydney Road, a well-known local retail and dining precinct make it a popular choice for families seeking quality early childhood education close to home.
Parents in Coburg typically prioritise NQS quality, not-for-profit or community governance models, educator stability and inclusive environments that reflect the suburb's diverse character when choosing long day care. The suburb is notable for having two centres rated Exceeding NQS, an uncommon distinction in inner Melbourne. Fees among the top three centres range from $137.80 to $200.30 per day before the Child Care Subsidy.
All long day care centres in Coburg 3058 were assessed for this guide against NQS ratings from ACECQA via Starting Blocks, verified fees and parent reviews from independent platforms. Three centres were selected as the top-ranked options for 2026.
Coburg childcare: what you need to know
Coburg’s long day care sector is notable for having two Exceeding NQS-rated centres, Shirley Robertson Children’s Centre and The Learning Space, a strong result for an inner-Melbourne suburb, given that fewer than 20% of long day care centres nationally hold this rating. The suburb offers a range of provider types from independent not-for-profits to family-owned boutiques and large national operators.
Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
All three centres on this list are CCS approved. Most Australian families are eligible for CCS, which is means-tested and calculated based on your combined family income, the number of hours of recognised activity you undertake, and the type of care your child attends.
Free Kinder
Victoria’s government-funded kindergarten program provides up to $2,101 per year for eligible 3 and 4-year-old children. All three centres offer integrated Free Kinder within their long day care programs. Contact each centre directly to confirm current funded hours and eligibility.
NQS rating distribution
Coburg has 2 centres rated Exceeding NQS (Shirley Robertson, The Learning Space) and 2+ centres rated Meeting NQS (Pelican Childcare, Coburg Children’s Centre). No centres currently hold an Excellent or Working Towards rating.
Provider types
Coburg offers genuine diversity of provider types: independent not-for-profit (Shirley Robertson), family-owned boutique (The Learning Space), and large national operator (Pelican/G8 Education). NQS ratings are the most reliable indicator of quality regardless of provider type.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best childcare centre in Coburg?
Shirley Robertson Children’s Centre at 1a Cameron Street is the highest-rated long day care centre in Coburg, holding an Exceeding NQS rating at consecutive assessments (October 2017 and June 2023), the lowest daily fee among the top 3 ($137.80), 78 licensed places, zero conditions, and a January 2026 regulatory visit. Phone: 03 9383 3359.
Does Coburg have any Exceeding NQS childcare centres?
Yes. Coburg 3058 has two long day care centres holding Exceeding NQS ratings: Shirley Robertson Children’s Centre (June 2023) and The Learning Space (August 2022), both confirmed by Starting Blocks (ACECQA). Exceeding NQS is held by fewer than 20% of long day care centres nationally.
Which Coburg childcare centre has the lowest fee?
Shirley Robertson Children’s Centre at 1a Cameron Street charges $137.80 per day, the lowest fee among the top 3 centres and well below the Greater Melbourne average. The centre holds an Exceeding NQS rating and is an independent not-for-profit operator. Phone: 03 9383 3359.
Which Coburg childcare centre has current vacancies?
Pelican Childcare Coburg at 1a Woiwurung Crescent has confirmed current vacancies for both casual and permanent placements, verified on Starting Blocks as of March 2026. Phone: 03 9354 9300.
Which Coburg childcare centre includes meals and nappies?
Pelican Childcare Coburg at 1a Woiwurung Crescent includes 8 confirmed inclusions in its $200.30 daily fee: afternoon tea, breakfast, education programs, excursions and incursions, lunch, morning tea, nappies, and other meals. This is the only centre in the top 3 with confirmed all-inclusive fees. Phone: 03 9354 9300.
Are there childcare subsidies available in Coburg?
Yes. Eligible families may receive the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) from the Australian Government. The subsidy amount depends on family income, hours of care needed, and the centre’s approved provider status. All three top-ranked centres are CCS approved. The Victorian Government also provides Free Kinder funding: up to $2,101 per year for eligible 3 and 4-year-old children at approved long day care centres. Contact Services Australia at servicesaustralia.gov.au for eligibility information.
What is the difference between a not-for-profit and for-profit childcare provider?
Not-for-profit childcare providers reinvest any surplus back into the service, into staff, facilities, programs and families, rather than distributing profits to shareholders. Shirley Robertson Children’s Centre is an independent not-for-profit. Pelican Childcare is operated by G8 Education Limited, Australia’s largest listed childcare provider. The Learning Space is family-owned and operated. NQS ratings are the most reliable indicator of quality regardless of provider type.
How do I choose between Shirley Robertson, The Learning Space and Pelican?
Choose Shirley Robertson Children’s Centre if you want consecutive Exceeding NQS ratings (the highest sustained quality in Coburg), the lowest fee ($137.80), and an independent not-for-profit operator: phone 03 9383 3359. Choose The Learning Space if you want Exceeding NQS quality, a family-owned boutique environment, child-led philosophy, and outstanding CareForKids reviews (5/5): phone 03 9350 5000. Choose Pelican Childcare if you need immediate vacancies (casual and permanent confirmed), all-inclusive fee (meals and nappies included), and long hours (6:30am to 6:30pm): phone 03 9354 9300. Visit all three in person.