I think 'playgroup' is a registered name and the fees are for joining a playgroup in the Playgroup Australia association which is why there is an annual fee and I have seen other playgroups that charge an annual fee and $4 per week per child or $10 for a family on top of it.

I think if you want less fees but still want to go along to one, look for groups with a variation on the name such as Playtime Group or just Playtime. I go to a playtime group and they charge $1 per week per family. Morning tea and craft are all included but we all go on a roster and take turns at doing different things like bringing morning tea, running craft, telling the story or doing the singing. I think it works well.

Most of these variation groups will be run by community centres, schools or church groups - places where insurance is already covered by the overarching organisation.

Hope that helps