2026 Comparison
Busy Bees vs G8 Education
Two large operators compared on fees, national footprint, and consistency between centres.
Winner
G8 Education
Best overall childcare choice when fee level, centre reach, and rating are weighed together.
Average Gap
$3
Difference in average childcare fees across comparable service bands.
Market Range
$11 - $170
The combined low-to-high fee range across both providers.
Brisbane, QLD · Est. 2013
From
$12
Average
$63
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Families in QLD/NSW wanting internationally-informed early learning
Review Busy BeesGold Coast, QLD · Est. 2007
From
$11
Average
$60
Coverage
10 areas
Best for: Budget-conscious families wanting national coverage and flexible options
Review G8 EducationPrice Comparison
Side-by-side pricing for matching services
| Service | Busy Bees | G8 Education | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Day Care (per day) | $135 | $130 | +$5 |
| Before School Care (per session) | $21 | $20 | +$1 |
| After School Care (per session) | $34 | $32 | +$2 |
| Vacation Care (per day) | $68 | $66 | +$2 |
| Occasional Care (per hour) | $16 | $15 | +$1 |
| Family Day Care (per day) | $102 | $98 | +$4 |
Pros & Cons
Busy Bees
- ✓International best practices from a global early learning network
- ✓Modern purpose-built centres with outdoor play areas
- ✓Structured curriculum aligned with the National Quality Framework
- ✓Strong educator training and professional development programs
- ✗Limited to QLD and NSW — no other states yet
- ✗Relatively new to Australia compared to established providers
- ✗Some centres still building community reputation
- ✗Fees can be higher than local independents
G8 Education
Winner- ✓National coverage with 450+ centres across all states
- ✓Competitive pricing — often below premium competitors
- ✓Multiple brand options to suit different community needs
- ✓CCS approved with flexible booking options
- ✗Quality can vary significantly between centres
- ✗Corporate structure may lack personal touch
- ✗Some centres have older facilities
- ✗Staff retention varies by location
Our Verdict
Busy Bees tends to edge ahead on newer facilities and structured curriculum, while G8 Education often wins on affordability and sheer network size across Australia.
Choose Busy Bees for newer centres and structured delivery. Choose G8 Education for cheaper fees and wider national choice.
Shortlist The Better Fit Faster
Review full provider pricing, service areas, and pros before you request quotes or book a job.
Comparison FAQ
G8 Education is approximately 5% cheaper on average across comparable services. Prices still vary by job size, inclusions, and location, so compare the exact service you need.
Busy Bees services 8 areas (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast...), while G8 Education services 10 areas (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane...).
Choose Busy Bees for newer centres and structured delivery. Choose G8 Education for cheaper fees and wider national choice.