Experienced operator helps secure $9.2m sale of Avondale Heights early learning service

A long-standing early childhood education and care (ECEC) service in Melbourne’s northwest has changed hands for $9.2 million, reflecting continued investor confidence in high-performing ECEC assets.

Located at 63–67 Canning Street in Avondale Heights, Victoria the 15-year-old service occupies a 2,287sqm corner site with 935sqm of internal floor space. It is operated by a private single-site provider with a 40-year history in the sector and secured under a 20-year lease with multiple 10-year renewal options.

The transaction was managed by CBRE’s Australian Healthcare and Social Infrastructure team of Sandro Peluso, Marcello Caspani-Muto and Jimmy Tat. The buyer, based in the Middle East, marks a growing trend of international capital entering the Australian childcare property market.

“While domestic capital is still present, we’re seeing more hesitancy from local investors,” Mr Caspani-Muto said. “Expanding into regions like Dubai and Abu Dhabi has helped us connect with high-net-worth expats who understand the value of Australia’s ECEC sector.”

Mr Peluso added that the operator’s strong track record was a decisive factor in building investor confidence.

“The age of the asset and the price point narrowed the buyer pool,” he said. “But meeting with the tenant and understanding their longstanding commitment to the sector allowed us to present a compelling investment case.”

The Avondale Heights centre is one of nine premium ECEC properties sold by CBRE in 2025, with transactions across Victoria, Western Australia and Queensland ranging from $5.5 million to $12.5 million.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Property Markets News.