Hi John .
We live in Aspendale. All the areas you have mentioned are very family friendly. We can walk to the beach in 10 mins. All areas are on the Frankston Line which takes approx 45 mins from here into Flinders Street. There are alot of activities for children in the area including dance schools , drama , oz kicks , cricket and nippers. Schools also have a great reputation. My daughter attends Aspendale Primary School. There are quite a few expat children already at the school and 3 of the teaching staff are from the Uk. Check real-estate.com.au for current rental prices in the area. The advice I would give you is to also check the prices to buy in these areas , whilst we love renting here , we are looking to buy by the end of the year and for our budget we could only afford a house which would need work or a smaller unit. Also check out Chelsea Heights and Aspendale Gardens which are great family areas , 10 mins away and very affordable.
All the best
Diane