How much do Babysitters charge in Australia?
When parents search “how much do babysitters charge in Australia,” they’re looking for clear, trustworthy answers. Babysitting rates vary depending on the city, the sitter’s experience, and the type of care required.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down average babysitter rates across Australia, compare babysitters and nannies, and explain the factors that affect costs—so you can confidently find care that suits your family and budget.
Average Babysitter Rates in Australia: 2025
The average babysitter rate in Australia is $25–$35 per hour. This range covers casual evening care, after-school babysitting, and weekend support.
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Standard Rate: $25–$30 per hour
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Experienced/Qualified Babysitter: $30–$35 per hour
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Nanny or Professional Carer: $30–$40+ per hour
💡 Tip: Families who book through Kiddo gain access to verified babysitters and nannies with transparent hourly rates before confirming a booking.
Babysitter Rates by City
Costs differ depending on location. Here’s what parents can expect in Australia’s major cities:
| City | Average Babysitter Rate (per hour) |
|---|---|
| Sydney | $30–$35 - view Sydney Babysitters |
| Melbourne | $28–$35 - view Melbourne Babysitters |
| Brisbane | $25–$32 - view Brisbane Babysitters |
| Perth | $27–$33 - view Perth Babysitters |
| Adelaide | $25–$30 - view Adelaide Babysitters |
| Gold Coast | $25–$32 - view Gold Coast Babysitters |
| Canberra | $28–$34 - view Canberra Babysitters |
Parents in Sydney and Melbourne generally pay the most, while Adelaide and Brisbane remain more affordable.
Babysitters vs. Nannies: What’s the cost difference?
While many parents use “babysitter” and “nanny” interchangeably, they’re quite different:
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Babysitter: Casual or part-time, often booked for evenings or weekends. Cost: $25–$35/hour.
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Nanny: Provides regular weekday care, school runs, homework help, and light household duties. Cost: $30–$40+/hour.
Factors that affect Babysitting rates
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Location: Major cities cost more than regional towns.
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Qualifications: Sitters with First Aid, CPR, childcare diplomas, or disability support experience may charge more.
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Number of Children: Expect an extra $2–$5/hour for additional children.
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Timing: Public holidays, late nights, and last-minute bookings can attract premium rates.
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Type of Care: Ongoing nanny services or NDIS-related support can be higher.
Why Babysitting costs are increasing in 2025
The cost of babysitting has risen steadily in Australia due to:
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Higher demand for flexible childcare
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Shortages of qualified carers in some cities
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More parents seeking verified, trustworthy sitters instead of informal arrangements
Kiddo helps parents manage these rising costs by connecting families directly with local babysitters and nannies—cutting out expensive agencies.
How to save on Babysitter costs
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Book locally: Sitters close by may have lower travel costs.
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Use Kiddo Premium: Enjoy discounts on every booking, free urgent job ads, and access to Australia’s largest babysitter network.
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Plan ahead: Booking early avoids last-minute premium rates.
Final thoughts: What should you pay a Babysitter?
In 2025, Australian parents can expect to pay $25–$35 per hour for babysitting, and $30–$40+ per hour for nanny services.
The easiest way to ensure you’re paying fair rates while getting reliable care is to book through Kiddo, Australia’s trusted babysitter and nanny app.
📲 Download the Kiddo App today to book verified, trusted babysitters in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, and more.
