Trusted Childcare & Preschool in Footscray
Now Enrolling – Limited Places Available
Oz Education Footscray is a welcoming childcare centre located in the heart of Footscray, a vibrant and culturally rich community in Melbourne’s inner west. Surrounded by local schools, parks, and public transport, our centre offers a convenient and trusted early learning environment for families living and working in the area.
Our passionate educators create a warm, inclusive space where every child feels safe, respected, and supported. We celebrate the diversity of our community and partner closely with families to nurture a strong sense of belonging, while supporting each child’s growth through play-based learning that builds confidence, independence, and school readiness skills.
3-Day Guarantee Childcare
Starting January 2026, enjoy three days of subsidised childcare per week under the new 3-Day Guarantee – regardless of work, study, or activity level.
What's Included Daily
- Open all year round 7am-6pm Monday-Friday, except public holidays
- Four freshly prepared, nutritious meals each day
- Personalised care and routines so your child feels right at home
- Nappies, cot sheets, sunscreen and other daily essentials are provided
- Qualified and experienced educators prioritising children’s safety and wellbeing
- Health, nutrition and safety education, including on-site dental checks
- Access to a wide range of quality early learning and Preschool programs
- Parent app to track your child’s routines and individualised learning progress
Centre
8 Empire St, Footscray, Melbourne VIC 3011
Contact
1300 088 520 | 03 9939 0777
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday 7am to 6pm
Enquire Now or Call Us On 1300 088 520
Our friendly team is here to help with any questions you have about programs, enrolments and centre tours. Contact us on 1300 088 520 or submit an enquiry – we’re here to support your family.
Kinder Approved Programs
Oz Education Footscray is proud to be a Kinder‑Approved centre delivering a Victorian Government funded and approved kindergarten program. Families can feel confident knowing our kinder program is led by qualified early childhood teachers, provides play‑based learning, and meets all Victorian Government quality and funding requirements under the Kinder Tick initiative.
As part of Victoria’s Best Start, Best Life reforms, children at Oz Education Footscray benefit from access to funded Three‑Year‑Old and Four‑Year‑Old Kindergarten, helping them build essential social, emotional and early literacy skills before starting school.
Margaret | Footscray Centre Director
Margaret is the passionate centre director at Oz Education Footscray, leading with heart and a commitment to delivering exceptional childcare in one of Melbourne’s most vibrant suburbs. Footscray is a melting pot of culture and creativity, and she is committed to bringing that same energy into our centre – creating spaces that are inclusive, inspiring, and safe.
As Centre Director, Margaret values collaboration with families and community, ensuring every child in our Footscray childcare centre feels empowered, supported, and celebrated.
All-Inclusive Early Learning Services
At Oz Education, we believe quality early learning should be simple, transparent, and stress‑free for families. That’s why our fees are all‑inclusive, with everything your child needs for a comfortable, enriching day already provided. There are no hidden costs – just exceptional care, every day.
Our Early Learning Programs
We offer high-quality, age-appropriate early learning programs that support your child’s development from infancy through to Kinder. Each program is designed to nurture your child’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive development in a safe, caring and play-based environment. Through play, exploration and meaningful interactions, children experience joy and curiosity while developing essential skills.
Platypus (0-2 years)
Our Platypus Program provides a warm, nurturing environment where babies feel safe, secure and supported. Through gentle routines and meaningful interactions, our educators build strong bonds that support development, communication and emotional wellbeing.
Inclusions
- Baby room with large play areas
- Nurturing cot room with baby safe cots
- Safe outdoor play area with shade
- Fun musical and construction toys
- Age appropriate learning resources
- Reading nook with sensory flip books
- Home and community role play corner
- Sensory garden bed
- Sturdy play gym and more
Koala (2-3 years)
Our Koala Program supports toddlers as they grow in confidence, independence and curiosity. Through play-based learning, social interactions and structured routines, children explore the world around them while developing friendships and communication skills.
Inclusions
- Large indoor play rooms
- Large outdoor play area with shade
- Age appropriate learning resources
- Reading nook with a library of books
- Home and community role play corners
- Push bikes and sand pit
- Sturdy play gym
- Educational outdoor furniture
- Outdoor sporting equipment and more
Kangaroo (3-4 years)
In our Kangaroo Program, children develop a deeper understanding of the world around them through hands-on learning experiences. We introduce foundational concepts in STEM, problem-solving and creativity while supporting physical, motor and social development.
Inclusions
- Large indoor play rooms
- Safe outdoor play area with shade
- Learning corner with a smart TV
- Preschool and STEM learning resources
- Reading nook and library of books
- Home and community role play corner
- Outdoor garden beds
- Bike track and sand pit
- Sturdy play gym
- Outdoor sporting equipment and more
Lizard (4-5 years)
Our Lizard Advantage Kinder Program provides a structured, supportive learning environment which is designed to equip curious learners with essential school readiness and STEM skills to enhance their confidence and independence for both school and life.
Inclusions
- Large indoor play rooms
- Safe outdoor play area with shade
- Learning corner with a smart TV
- Preschool and STEM learning resources
- Reading nook and library of books
- Home and community role play corner
- Outdoor garden beds
- Bike track and sand pit
- Sturdy play gym
- Outdoor sporting equipment and more
STEM Learning Program
Our STEM program introduces children to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on, play-based learning. By encouraging curiosity, problem-solving, and creative thinking, children explore how things work in a fun and engaging way. These early experiences help build confidence, critical thinking skills, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Alongside guided activities, children are encouraged to experiment, ask questions, and learn through discovery. Whether they are building simple structures, exploring patterns, or engaging with age-appropriate technology, our STEM experiences are designed to spark interest and develop real-world thinking skills in a supportive and engaging environment.
Large Spacious Indoor & Outdoor Rooms
Age Appropriate Learning Resources
Early Learning & Social Development
Fun & Educational Sensory Experiences
Early Numeracy & Literacy Resources
Award-Winning Preschool Program
Early STEM Learning
Imaginative Mini Worlds
Why Local Families Trust Us
Families searching for childcare in Footscray choose Oz Education because we foster happiness and confidence through nurturing, play-based learning. We combine genuine care with quality early learning programs. Our centre supports children’s social, emotional and cognitive development while preparing them for a confident transition to school.
Very happy with the teachers! The educators at Oz Education Footscray childcare are caring, professional, and go above and beyond to support the children’s learning and well-being. A special thank you to the Centre Director and educators for their dedication, patience, and continuous support—they have made such a positive difference. Highly recommended!
Lakshimi Hemanth
Our daughter was quite shy when she first started at Oz Education, but thanks to the caring and supportive educators, she has blossomed into a confident and competent learner. She now participates actively in activities, expresses herself freely, and shows curiosity and enthusiasm for learning every day. The nurturing environment at Oz Education Footscray kindergarten has truly helped her grow both socially and academically. We couldn’t be happier with her progress!
Nutanid
As a teacher, I value high-quality early education, and Oz Education’s kindergarten program has been exceptional. My child has thrived in a nurturing, engaging environment that fosters curiosity, independence, and essential school readiness skills. The educators are caring, professional, and dedicated to each child’s growth.
Elizabeth
Hear From Oz Education Parents
Choosing the right early learning centre is an important decision. At Oz Education Early Learning Centres, we’re proud to partner with families to create a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for every child.
From our caring educators to our enriching learning programs, families trust us to support their children during the most important early years of development.
Hear directly from our parents as they share their experience and what makes Oz Education feel like more than just childcare.
Nurturing Creativity & Confidence
At Oz Education, we are committed to providing age-appropriate learning and enriching resources to nurture the minds of young children. Our carefully designed rooms are equipped with stimulating materials and resources tailored to each age group, creating an environment where children can thrive and explore.
Our qualified educators are dedicated to monitoring and engaging with children within each room, ensuring a safe and nurturing space for learning and growth. With their expertise and passion for early childhood education, our educators facilitate a wide range of stimulating learning activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and skill development.
A Safe & Secure Place For Your Child
At Oz Education, nothing is more important than the happiness, safety and wellbeing of your child.
As a family‑owned childcare provider – and parents ourselves – we understand just how much trust you place in us. That trust is never taken lightly. For more than 45 years, our centres have proudly met and maintained the standards of the National Quality Framework (NQF), creating safe, nurturing environments where every child is protected, supported, and valued.
When your child is part of the Oz Education family, you can feel confident knowing their safety is embedded in everything we do – every day.
Childcare Funding Support For Families
The Government has introduced the 3 Day Guarantee, which provides all CCS eligible families with a minimum of 72 subsidised hours per fortnight, no matter your work, study or training hours.
Oz Education Early Learning Centres offer flexible hours – 9, 10, 11 or full day long daycare sessions to help minimise your out-of-pocket expenses for childcare and save further. If your family is entitled to a maximum subsidy of 95%, your fees could start from as little as $12 a day, depending on the centre.
We’re here to support families and provide the best care and learning for every child.
Oz Education Footscray is proud to provide childcare under several programs, such as:
- The Child Care Subsidy is accessible to most families and can cover some of their fees based on their income.
- The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) assists parents in completing their English classes, while providing children with play-based learning opportunities.
- The Free Kinder Program provides children aged 3 and 4 year olds in our care the opportunity for the best chance and start to life.
Where is Oz Education Footscray located?
Our centre is located at 8 Empire St, Footscray VIC 3011, close to local schools, shops, and public transport.
What age groups do you cater for?
We welcome children aged 6 weeks to 6 years, with age-based programs designed for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Each room is tailored to the developmental needs of its age group, ensuring your child receives the best start in their early learning journey.
What are your operating hours?
Our Footscray childcare centre operates Monday to Friday, from 7:00am – 6:00pm, offering convenient hours for busy families.
Can I book a tour of the centre?
Yes! Families are warmly encouraged to book a tour to meet our caring educators, and see firsthand why Oz Education is a trusted choice for childcare in Footscray.
What programs are available at Oz Education Footscray?
We offer a full early learning curriculum that includes STEM, literacy, numeracy, creative arts, sensory play, physical development and school readiness. Children also enjoy enrichment programs like dance, cooking, gardening, and multisports. Programs are designed to support learning and growth for each stage of early childhood between 0 to 6 years.
What does the centre provide?
Our all-inclusive service provides fresh, nutritious meals, nappies, wipes, sunscreen, and a wide range of learning materials. This allows families to enjoy the convenience of knowing everything is taken care of.
What should my child bring each day?
We provide meals, nappies, wipes, and learning resources. Families only need to bring a spare change of clothes, a hat, and any comfort items their child may need.
Are meals included?
Yes. Our centre provides freshly prepared meals and snacks daily, created to support healthy growth and wellbeing. Menus are balanced, nutritious, and designed to introduce children to a variety of flavours and foods.
How do I enrol my child?
Enrolling is simple. You can call us on 1300 088 520 or complete an online enquiry form to begin the enrolment process. Our friendly team will guide you through each step.
Are your centres approved for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS)?
Yes, all Oz Education centres are approved for the Australian Government Child Care Subsidy (CCS), helping to make quality childcare more affordable for families.
How will I be updated on my child’s progress?
Families receive regular updates, daily reports, and ongoing feedback from educators. These communications help you stay connected with your child’s learning journey and give you peace of mind that they’re thriving in our care.
