2026 Comparison
Affinity Education vs Only About Children
Comparing two growing premium childcare operators on quality, fees, and learning programs.
Winner
Affinity Education
Best overall childcare choice when fee level, centre reach, and rating are weighed together.
Average Gap
$17
Difference in average childcare fees across comparable service bands.
Market Range
$10 - $200
The combined low-to-high fee range across both providers.
Gold Coast, QLD · Est. 2009
From
$10
Average
$59
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: QLD and NSW families wanting affordable, community-focused childcare
Review Affinity EducationSydney, NSW · Est. 2003
From
$15
Average
$76
Coverage
6 areas
Best for: Families wanting premium early learning with chef-prepared meals and purpose-built facilities
Review Only About ChildrenPrice Comparison
Side-by-side pricing for matching services
| Service | Affinity Education | Only About Children | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Day Care (per day) | $128 | $168 | -$40 |
| Before School Care (per session) | $19 | $26 | -$7 |
| After School Care (per session) | $30 | $40 | -$10 |
| Vacation Care (per day) | $65 | $82 | -$17 |
| Occasional Care (per hour) | $14 | $20 | -$6 |
| Family Day Care (per day) | $95 | $118 | -$23 |
Pros & Cons
Affinity Education
Winner- ✓Among the most affordable childcare options in QLD/NSW
- ✓Strong community and family engagement focus
- ✓Flexible booking options including part-time and casual
- ✓Play-based curriculum aligned with EYLF
- ✗Limited to QLD and NSW only
- ✗Smaller network compared to national providers
- ✗Some centres in older converted buildings
- ✗Less brand recognition than major competitors
Only About Children
- ✓Premium purpose-built centres with outstanding facilities
- ✓Chef-prepared nutritious meals included in fees
- ✓Strong sustainability and outdoor learning focus
- ✓Highly qualified educators with low staff-to-child ratios
- ✗Among the most expensive childcare options
- ✗Limited to Sydney and Melbourne metro areas
- ✗Long wait lists at most centres
- ✗No regional or rural coverage
Our Verdict
Affinity Education offers a growing network with strong educational programs, while Only About Children provides inner-city boutique care with premium facilities. Affinity is best for: Families in growth corridors wanting quality education-focused care. Only About Children is best for: Inner-city families wanting premium facilities and programs.
Choose Affinity for education-focused care. Choose Only About Children for inner-city premium centres.
Shortlist The Better Fit Faster
Review full provider pricing, service areas, and pros before you request quotes or book a job.
Comparison FAQ
Affinity Education is approximately 22% cheaper on average across comparable services. Prices still vary by job size, inclusions, and location, so compare the exact service you need.
Affinity Education services 8 areas (Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sunshine Coast...), while Only About Children services 6 areas (Sydney, Melbourne, Wollongong...).
Choose Affinity for education-focused care. Choose Only About Children for inner-city premium centres.