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
Goodstart
$176.44
All inclusive
Cheeriokids
$172.90
All inclusive
Heidelberg average: $172.78/day before CCS. All three centres are CCS approved. Fees current as of March 2026. Confirm directly with each centre.
About childcare in Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a well-established suburb in Melbourne's north-east, approximately 12 kilometres from the CBD within the City of Banyule. Anchored by the Austin Health precinct, Heidelberg station, and the artist colony heritage of the Heidelberg School, the area draws a mix of healthcare workers, young families, and long-term residents who value access to parklands along the Yarra River, strong local schools, and a walkable town centre.
Parents in the Heidelberg area typically weigh NQS ratings, fee transparency, educator continuity, and the availability of government-funded kindergarten when choosing childcare. The broader Heidelberg and Heidelberg Heights area has more than ten early learning services, giving families a reasonable range of options across not-for-profit, family-owned, and independent operators.
All long day care centres in the Heidelberg and Heidelberg Heights area 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.
Heidelberg childcare: what you need to know
Heidelberg (3084) and Heidelberg Heights (3081) sit within the City of Banyule in Melbourne's north-east. Daily long day care fees at the top three centres range from $169 to $176.44 before the Child Care Subsidy. All three centres offer all-inclusive pricing.
Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
All three centres on this list are CCS approved. Most Australian families are eligible for CCS, which is means-tested based on combined family income and activity levels. Eligible families can receive up to 90% subsidy on fees.
Free Kinder
All three centres offer government-funded kindergarten programs for 3 and 4 year olds integrated within their long day care model. This means your child can attend the same centre for both long day care and kindergarten.
Waitlists
Cheeriokids in particular has limited availability given its 40-place capacity. Goodstart's 122-place capacity may offer better availability. Enquire early, ideally 3 to 6 months before your preferred start date.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best childcare centre in Heidelberg VIC?
Goodstart Early Learning Heidelberg at 28 Rosanna Road is ranked #1 in Heidelberg 3084, holding a Meeting NQS rating (March 2025) with 122 licensed places. Cheeriokids Heidelberg (#2) also holds Meeting NQS with a 5.0 CareForKids rating (17 reviews). A2Z Childcare and Kindergarten (#3) holds Meeting NQS at $169/day with a 5.0 CareForKids rating (24 reviews). All three are CCS approved.
How much does childcare cost in Heidelberg?
Daily fees in Heidelberg range from $169 to $176.44 per day for long day care. A2Z charges $169.00, Cheeriokids charges $172.90, and Goodstart charges $176.44. All three include meals and nappies in their daily fee. The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
What is the postcode for Heidelberg childcare?
Goodstart is in Heidelberg proper (postcode 3084). Cheeriokids and A2Z are in Heidelberg Heights (postcode 3081). Both are within the City of Banyule in Melbourne's north-east.
Are all three centres CCS approved?
Yes. Goodstart Early Learning Heidelberg, Cheeriokids Heidelberg, and A2Z Childcare and Kindergarten are all approved to receive the Australian Government's Child Care Subsidy.
Can I get government-funded kindergarten at these centres?
Yes. All three centres offer government-funded kindergarten programs for 3 and 4 year olds integrated within their long day care model. Contact the centres directly to confirm current availability and enrolment requirements.
Which centre is the most affordable?
A2Z Childcare and Kindergarten offers the best value at $169.00/day with all-inclusive fees covering meals, nappies, education programs, and excursions. Cheeriokids is $172.90/day and Goodstart is $176.44/day.
Which centre offers casual or occasional care?
A2Z Childcare and Kindergarten offers the widest range of care options including long day care, occasional care, casual care, and before school care. Cheeriokids also offers vacation care alongside long day care.