2026 Comparison
Busy Bees vs Goodstart
Franchise-backed childcare scale versus not-for-profit value. Compare fees, availability, and curriculum consistency.
Winner
Goodstart Early Learning
Best overall childcare choice when fee level, centre reach, and rating are weighed together.
Average Gap
$2
Difference in average childcare fees across comparable service bands.
Market Range
$12 - $175
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 BeesMelbourne, VIC · Est. 2010
From
$12
Average
$65
Coverage
10 areas
Best for: Families wanting a trusted national provider with inclusive early learning programs
Review Goodstart Early LearningPrice Comparison
Side-by-side pricing for matching services
| Service | Busy Bees | Goodstart Early Learning | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long Day Care (per day) | $135 | $140 | -$5 |
| Before School Care (per session) | $21 | $22 | -$1 |
| After School Care (per session) | $34 | $35 | -$1 |
| Vacation Care (per day) | $68 | $72 | -$4 |
| Occasional Care (per hour) | $16 | $16 | Same |
| Family Day Care (per day) | $102 | $105 | -$3 |
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
Goodstart Early Learning
Winner- ✓Australia's largest not-for-profit provider with consistent standards
- ✓Inclusive programs for children with additional needs
- ✓CCS (Child Care Subsidy) approved across all centres
- ✓Qualified early childhood educators at every centre
- ✗Large-scale operation can feel less personal
- ✗Wait lists common at popular centres
- ✗Fees vary significantly between locations
- ✗Staff turnover can be higher than boutique centres
Our Verdict
Busy Bees often wins on newer centre fit-outs and structured curriculum delivery, while Goodstart remains the better value option for families prioritising lower out-of-pocket costs and widespread availability.
Choose Busy Bees for newer centres and structured delivery. Choose Goodstart for better value and national reach.
Shortlist The Better Fit Faster
Review full provider pricing, service areas, and pros before you request quotes or book a job.
Comparison FAQ
Busy Bees is approximately 3% 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 Goodstart Early Learning services 10 areas (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane...).
Choose Busy Bees for newer centres and structured delivery. Choose Goodstart for better value and national reach.