Regional Childcare Operator Believe Early Learning enters administration in Victoria

Believe Early Learning, a regional Victorian childcare provider operating centers in Eaglehawk and Mooroopna, has entered voluntary administration, adding to mounting financial strain across Australia’s early education sector.

Andrew Blundell and Chris Bergin of Cathro & Partners were appointed voluntary administrators of Believe Early Learning Pty Ltd and four related entities - Accept Group Pty Ltd, First 7 Years Pty Ltd, Believe Early Learning Eaglehawk Pty Ltd, and Believe Early Learning Mooroopna Pty Ltd on 10 April. The group operates childcare services in Eaglehawk, near Bendigo, and Mooroopna, near Shepparton, both key regional communities in Victoria.

The appointments come as operators across the childcare sector contend with rising wage costs, compliance obligations, occupancy pressures, and higher borrowing expenses. Smaller and regional providers can be especially exposed where enrollment fluctuations or staffing shortages materially affect margins.

A series of recent insolvencies in the sector (including Future Kids and Precious Cargo Education) has highlighted broader pressure on operators, despite sustained demand for childcare places and continued policy focus on workforce participation.

The number of employees, enrolled families and creditors affected by the Believe Early Learning administrations has not been publicly disclosed at this point.