About Astute
A Team with Proven Experience
With decades of combined experience across childcare operations, compliance, business management, and educational leadership, our team has been at the forefront of shaping high-quality early childhood services.
- 300+ Childcare Centres Opened – We have successfully launched and managed services across all Australian states and territories.
- Deep Sector Knowledge – Our expertise spans private, not-for-profit, and local government-operated services.
- Strong Industry Networks – We work closely with government agencies, peak bodies, and sector specialists to stay ahead of regulatory and operational trends.
- Results-Driven Approach – From turnaround strategies for struggling centres to growth planning for established services, we deliver real, measurable outcomes.
Why Choose Astute?
- Unmatched Experience – With a proven track record in the sector, we understand the real challenges faced by service providers.
- Tailored Solutions – We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach—every strategy is designed for the specific needs of your centre.
- Holistic Support – We cover every aspect of running a childcare service, from business operations to education and compliance.
- Sector Leadership – We stay ahead of policy changes, best practices, and sector innovations, ensuring our clients are always well-prepared and future-ready.
Partner with the Experts in Early Years
At Astute Early Years Specialists, we are more than consultants—we are trusted partners, problem solvers, and industry leaders who are passionate about helping early childhood services thrive.
Contact us today to find out how we can support your centre’s success.
Our Values
Respect
We respect our people, our network and the work that we do each day. We understand the value each individual person brings to the world and build relationships that are mutually respectful. Astute embraces & respects individual ideas and ways of thinking.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in every way and in everything we do. When we set to do something, we do it to the highest quality & standard attainable. Our performance & deliverables are second to none. We guide Centre Owners, Approved Providers, Managers and Team members to deliver excellence across all facets of their business.
Relationships
Our people are our family. At Astute relationships are nurtured, valued and integral to our work. We foster strong connections with our clients, centres, team members & stakeholders that become long-term relationships.
Children are important
The wellbeing of children is central to everything we do. At Astute, our purpose is to support Centre Owners, Approved Providers, Managers & Teams to deliver the highest quality education and care programs to children. Children are our future and they deserve to be nurtured, supported and provided with loving environments & community for their early learning journey.
Meet our expert team
Mel Comerford
Director & Founder
Kylie Dawson
Strategy, Planning & Innovation Manager
Natalie McDonald
Marketing and Communications Manager
Carlee Baldwick
Accounts Manager
Rebecca Donaldson
Children's Services Manager
Jackie Alesi
Executive Assistant
Big Win at the Queensland Mining Awards!
We are beyond excited to announce that the Childcare Leadership Alliance won the Community, Staff Engagement, or Equal Opportunity Award at the 2024 Queensland Mining
SEO Strategy for a Childcare Centre Website
In today’s digital age, having a robust online presence is essential for any childcare centre looking to attract and engage with prospective parents.
BMA and Astute Early Years Specialists Nominated for Prestigious Queensland Mining Award
We at Astute Early Years Specialists are thrilled to announce that our collaborative initiative with BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) has been nominated for the Community, Staff Engagement, or Equal Opportunity Award at the esteemed Queensland Mining Awards. This nomination is a significant acknowledgment of our innovative efforts in regional childcare through the Childcare Leadership Alliance (CLA) project.
Contact us today and let our team of early years specialists work their magic.