Leasing Deal Marks International Childcare Operator’s Entry Into Australian Market

Cosmic Education Group, one of the largest operators of Montessori schools in Asia, is set to expand into Australian after securing the lease for a Mount Waverley childcare centre that’s under development.

CBRE’s Australian Healthcare & Social Infrastructure team of Jimmy Tat, Marcello Caspani-Muto and Sandro Peluso brokered the lease deal, a 15-year initial term plus options, which reflects a rental income of $865,000 per year, more than $5,000 per place.

Designed by Architecton, in collaboration with Cosmic Education, construction of the 150-place flagship childcare centre is set to begin in early 2026.

Mr Caspani-Muto said the centre was set to become a vibrant addition to the local community.

“This is more than a standard childcare centre, the design is premium in nature, and it includes a commercial café that will be open to the public. Positioned on a major public walkway, alongside Scotchman’s Creek, the inclusion of this café is expected to be very popular with locals who run, walk and ride bikes there daily. The centre will be a beacon for the community and quality childcare,” Mr Caspani-Muto added.

Mr Tat noted the property at 454 Waverley Road was originally sold by CBRE in 2020, subject to receiving a childcare planning permit. With a permit now in place and overwhelming support from the local council, the private development syndicate will go ahead with construction of the centre.

The site adjoins Opal’s Scotchmans Creek Aged Care home, and the co-location of the childcare centre, along with the public cafe, will create a community hub.

“This has been a project many years in the making for our business since we first sold the site for BlueCross almost five years ago,” Mr Tat said. “There are many benefits for both children and residents of the aged care home that will stem from the co-location of both operations, including the children visiting the aged care residents.”

Cosmic Education Group (CEG) have 27 campuses across Hong Kong, Singapore, Bali and mainland China and have engaged CBRE to help drive their entry to the Australian market.

“The team are excited to assist Cosmic with their expansion into Australia with a focus on securing premium Victorian locations and experienced developers that align with their global brand,” Mr Tat added.