G8 Education concludes $50 million share buy-back ahead of schedule

G8 Education has completed its $50 million on-market share buy-back program, which began in September 2024 and included the repurchase of more than 60 million shares.

The buy-back officially closed on 4 June 2025, three months ahead of its scheduled end date of 15 September. In total, G8 acquired 60,287,476 shares, equivalent to 6.92 per cent of issued capital as at 31 December 2023. All purchases were funded from existing cash reserves.

In May, The Sector reported that G8 had repurchased nearly 35 million shares, with over 86 per cent of the authorised allocation already acquired. The early conclusion reflects consistent daily trading activity and a clear intent to strengthen investor confidence through sustained capital discipline.

While the initiative has no direct impact on service delivery, it provides rare insight into how a publicly listed early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider manages financial strategy in a changing operating environment. Most other providers in the sector are privately held or not-for-profit.

G8 has indicated that the buy-back is expected to improve earnings per share and return on equity. In its 2024 Annual Results, the company stated: “We remain focused on disciplined capital management and improving return on invested capital.”

Operating more than 400 services nationally under brands including Greenwood, Kindy Patch and Pelican Childcare, G8 Education remains one of the few ASX-listed organisations in the ECEC space. The buy-back signals a preference for consolidation and financial strength in response to sector-wide challenges such as workforce shortages, enrolment shifts and regulatory reform.

Looking ahead: What’s next for G8 in FY25?

While no further buy-back activity has been announced, the company’s recent actions suggest a continued focus on risk management, investor relations and sustainable operations. Any future initiatives will likely reflect the same measured approach to capital planning in a sector where conditions remain dynamic.

Daily ASX filings related to the buy-back were made in accordance with Listing Rule 3.8A and are available here.