Childcare waiting lists in Ballarat can range from several months to over a year, depending on the centre and age group.

Data suggests some providers report virtually zero available days for childcare placements, particularly for babies and toddlers.

Wait times are longest for:

• Children aged 0–2 years

• Highly rated centres

• Locations close to major employment areas

Parents are often advised to join waiting lists during pregnancy to secure a place. 

Popular DayCares like RisenShine often keep some seats available for emergency enrollment or short notice joining. You many contact RisenShine Early Learning Centre 03 4309 4296 or directly Book a Spot here. 

The average cost of long day care in Ballarat is approximately $143–$165 per day, depending on the centre and suburb.

Factors affecting childcare costs include:

• Child’s age (infant care costs more)

• Operating hours of the centre

• Educational programs offered

• Government subsidies such as the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)

After subsidies, many families pay significantly less than the full daily fee.

Call RisenShine Early Learning Centre to discuss about the fee and discounts: 03 5340 0795

Yes. Demand for kindergarten places in Ballarat has been rising due to:

• Victoria’s free kindergarten initiative

• Population growth in regional centres

• Increased recognition of early childhood education benefits

However, staff shortages and limited infrastructure mean some kindergartens cannot expand programs, even when demand is high.

This means securing kindergarten spots early is increasingly important for local families.

Call us to discuss more: 03 5340 0795

There are about 45 daycare and childcare centres operating in Ballarat, with the number gradually increasing over the past few years.

These include:

• Long Day Care (LDC) centres

• Kindergarten and preschool programs

• Family Day Care providers

• Outside-school-hours care services

Many suburbs such as Ballarat Central, Ballarat East, and Ballarat North each host multiple centres, but availability remains tight because demand often exceeds capacity.