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
$164.43
All inclusive
Bayside
$145.00
All inclusive
Mentone Childcare
$138–$155
Varies by age
Mentone average: $149.67/day before CCS. All three centres are CCS approved. Fees current as of March 2026. Confirm directly with each centre.
About childcare in Mentone
Mentone is a bayside suburb in Melbourne's south-east, approximately 22 kilometres from the CBD within the City of Kingston. Situated between Mordialloc Creek and the Nepean Highway, Mentone offers proximity to the beach, Mentone station on the Frankston line, and a compact shopping precinct along Mentone Parade. The suburb attracts a mix of established families, young professionals, and retirees who value the quiet, coastal village character and strong local schools.
Parents in Mentone typically prioritise flexibility of care arrangements, fee transparency, educator stability, and NQS ratings when choosing childcare. With more than ten early learning services in the 3194 postcode, families have a reasonable range of options across not-for-profit, family-owned, and independent operators. Extended opening hours and all-inclusive pricing are particularly valued by dual-income households commuting to the CBD.
All long day care centres in Mentone 3194 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.
Mentone childcare: what you need to know
Mentone sits within the City of Kingston in Melbourne's bayside south-east. The suburb's postcode (3194) has 10+ childcare services, with daily long day care fees ranging from $138 to $164.43 before the Child Care Subsidy.
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
Popular centres in Mentone often have waiting lists. Enrol as early as possible, ideally 3 to 6 months before your preferred start date. Contact the centres directly to check current availability.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best childcare centre in Mentone VIC?
Based on NQS ratings, parent reviews and program quality, all three top-ranked centres in Mentone 3194 hold a Meeting NQS rating and a 5.0 CareForKids rating. Goodstart Early Learning at 205-207 Nepean Highway offers not-for-profit affordability. Bayside Early Learning at 132 Collins Street offers extended hours and all-inclusive fees. Mentone Childcare & Kindergarten at 21-23 Childers Street offers the most flexible care options and the highest review volume (43 reviews).
How much does childcare cost in Mentone?
Daily fees in Mentone 3194 range from $138 to $164.43 per day for long day care before the Child Care Subsidy. Mentone Childcare & Kindergarten charges $138–$155 (varies by age), Bayside charges $145.00, and Goodstart charges $164.43. All three include meals and nappies in their daily fee.
What is the postcode for Mentone childcare?
All three top-rated childcare centres in Mentone are located in postcode 3194, within the City of Kingston in Melbourne's bayside south-east.
Are all three centres CCS approved?
Yes. Goodstart Early Learning Mentone, Bayside Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten, and Mentone Childcare & 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. This means your child can attend the same centre for both long day care and kindergarten without needing separate providers.
Which centre has the earliest opening time?
Bayside Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten opens at 6:00am, the earliest of the three. Goodstart opens at 6:30am. Mentone Childcare & Kindergarten opens at 7:00am. All three close at 6:30pm.
Which centre offers occasional or casual care?
Mentone Childcare & Kindergarten offers the widest range of care options including long day care, occasional care, casual care, and flexible care arrangements. Goodstart and Bayside offer long day care and kindergarten programs.