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
Bridge Road ELC
~$147
Confirm with centre
Green Leaves
$181.00
All inclusive
Sparkways RMCC
$167.40
Not-for-profit
Richmond average: $165.13/day before CCS. All three centres are CCS approved. Fees current as of March 2026. Confirm directly with each centre.
About childcare in Richmond
Richmond is a vibrant inner-city suburb in Melbourne's east, located within the City of Yarra and served by postcode 3121. Positioned between the CBD and Hawthorn, Richmond is well connected by tram, train and road, with access to multiple train lines and stations across the suburb. The suburb is known for its mix of heritage terraces, converted warehouses and modern apartment developments, attracting a diverse range of families from young professionals to established households. Childcare fees in Richmond average around $165 per day before the Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
The early learning landscape in Richmond includes more than 10 childcare services across the postcode, with daily long day care fees at the top centres ranging from approximately $147 to $181 before the Child Care Subsidy. Options in the suburb span independently operated centres with Exceeding NQS status, larger group-operated services with extensive inclusions, and intimate not-for-profit community centres with a strong multicultural focus.
All centres in postcode 3121 were assessed for this guide using ACECQA National Quality Standard ratings sourced from Starting Blocks, verified fee data, and parent reviews from CareForKids and Google. The three centres selected represent the strongest combination of regulatory quality, parent satisfaction and program depth available in Richmond.
Richmond childcare: what you need to know
Richmond sits within the City of Yarra in Melbourne's inner east. The suburb's postcode (3121) has 10+ childcare services, with daily long day care fees at the top three centres ranging from approximately $147 to $181 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. Sparkways applies the Victorian Government Free Kinder payment directly to your daily fees, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Waitlists
Demand is high in Richmond. Bridge Road in particular has limited availability given its 60-place capacity and Exceeding NQS status. Enquire early, ideally 3 to 6 months before your preferred start date.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best childcare centre in Richmond VIC?
Bridge Road Early Learning Centre at 624-628 Bridge Road holds the highest NQS rating in Richmond 3121: Exceeding NQS (May 2024), reconfirmed across back-to-back assessments, with a 5.0 CareForKids rating from 41 reviews. Green Leaves at 556 Swan Street has the highest review volume (5.0 CareForKids, 49 reviews; 4.9/5 parent rating from 50 reviews). Sparkways at 16 Gleadell Street offers not-for-profit, community-focused care.
How much does childcare cost in Richmond?
Daily fees in Richmond 3121 range from approximately $147 to $181 per day for long day care. Bridge Road is listed at approximately $147/day (confirm directly). Sparkways charges $167.40/day. Green Leaves charges $181.00/day. All three include meals in their daily fee. The Child Care Subsidy can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.
What is the postcode for Richmond childcare?
All three top-rated childcare centres in Richmond are located in postcode 3121, within the City of Yarra in Melbourne's inner east.
Are all three centres CCS approved?
Yes. Bridge Road Early Learning Centre, Green Leaves Early Learning Richmond, and Sparkways Richmond Multicultural Children's Centre 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. Sparkways applies the Victorian Government Free Kinder payment directly to your daily fees.
What is bush kinder?
Bush kinder is an outdoor, nature-based learning program where children spend time in natural environments learning through play and exploration. Bridge Road Early Learning Centre offers a bush kinder program on Fridays as part of their kindergarten program.
Which centre is open over Christmas and New Year?
Bridge Road Early Learning Centre is open over Christmas and New Year, a genuine advantage for working families. Contact Green Leaves and Sparkways directly to confirm their closure dates.