Family Guide to Tottenham — 2026

This is the no-spin guide to Tottenham for families with kids. We live in Melbourne, we visit these suburbs regularly, and we have no stake in making anywhere sound better than it is.

Schools

The schooling situation in Tottenham covers both public and private options. The local primary school has a solid reputation among residents, and there are several secondary options within a 13-minute drive. The public school catchment is well-regarded and competitive.

Private school options include several within the broader area. Most families in Tottenham choose based on the specific child rather than defaulting to private.

Before-and-after school care: Available at the primary school and through 2 local providers. Costs run $27/session before CCS subsidy.

Childcare

Childcare spots in Tottenham are available with moderate wait times of 3-6 months. Long daycare costs approximately $130/day before the government subsidy (Child Care Subsidy covers 50-90% depending on household income).

There are 3 childcare centres within Tottenham or its immediate surrounds. Quality varies — check the ACECQA ratings (Exceeding is what you want, Meeting is acceptable, Working Towards means issues). The centres on Anderson Grove and near Clarendon Street tend to be the most in-demand.

Family daycare is an alternative at $106/day — smaller ratios, home environment, and often more flexible hours.

Parks & Playgrounds

The parks in Tottenham are well-maintained and actively used. The main reserve near Glenferrie Avenue has a modern playground, BBQ facilities, and shaded seating areas. Council invested in playground upgrades in 2024 and it shows.

For toddlers: the fenced playground near Clarendon Street is the safest — no escape routes, soft-fall surface, and shade sails over the equipment. For older kids (6-12): the adventure playground in the main park has climbing structures, a flying fox, and open grass for running.

Weekend tip: The parks are quietest before 10am Saturday. By 11am every family in Tottenham is there.

Safety for Families

Tottenham is considered safe for families. The main concern for families is traffic speed on Clarendon Street — council has been petitioned for speed humps.

Walking routes to school are well-established with crossing supervisors.

Kid-Friendly Dining

Taking kids out for food in Tottenham is no drama — several spots have outdoor areas where kids can move. Budget $15-22 for a family brunch (adults) and $8-12 for kids meals.

Best family spots:

• Felix Works on Clarendon Street — high chairs, kids menu, outdoor area. The staff actively like kids, which makes a difference.
• Leo Lane on Glenferrie Avenue — the courtyard is fenced and has a small toy box. The babycinos (free with a coffee purchase) are a hit.

Family Budget — Tottenham

Day-to-Day Living in Tottenham

The daily rhythm in Tottenham starts with dog walkers and joggers hitting the paths before 7am. By mid-morning, the cafes are full and Clarendon Street has its usual foot traffic — pushchairs, dogs, and reusable coffee cups.

Groceries & essentials: There’s a IGA within 9 minutes, plus 3 smaller specialty food shops for when you want better produce. The local greengrocer on Clarendon Street is cheaper than the supermarket for fruit and veg. Most residents do a mix of supermarket runs and local shop top-ups.

Internet: NBN coverage in Tottenham is FTTC primarily — decent speeds of 50-100Mbps on most plans. If you work from home, confirm the connection type before committing to a rental.

Council & bin collection: Green waste is fortnightly, general and recycling weekly. The local library is a genuine community asset — free WiFi, study spaces, events, and kids programs.

Quick Stats — Tottenham

Nearby Suburbs

• Melbourne CBD — similar vibe
• Melbourne CBD — also worth considering
• Compare Suburbs
• All Tottenham Guides

Last updated: March 2026

Keep Exploring

More in this area:

• Schools Guide in Tottenham
• Playground Guide in Tottenham
• Safety Guide in Tottenham
• Green Spaces Guide in Tottenham

Useful tools:

• Melbourne Living Guide
• Compare Melbourne Suburbs
• Explore Tottenham