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AAP
AAP
Business
Derek Rose

Childcare centres struggling with costs, falling demand

Australia's childcare sector is finding it tough to make the numbers add up as costs rise. (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)

Australia's childcare sector is facing strong headwinds amid falling birthrates, the cost-of-living crunch, increased regulation and compliance requirements and rising wages.

Mayfield Childcare - which operates 45 long daycare centres in Victoria, Queensland and South Australia - has withdrawn earning guidance delivered in March, becoming the third ASX-listed chain to cite tough trading conditions in 2026.

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