Childcare waiting lists.

[mrsmac]

Riley is in family daycare in Northern sydney. I put his name down while I was pg and he started at 8 months. I needn't have booked him in so early but I wanted a particular carer who I knew well. I know a friend who rang FDC said they told her to call 3 months before she wanted a place.

[Melbo]

Waiting lists are the same in our area - 18 months for babies under two.

Our community child care centres have gone to a centralised waiting list arrangement with the council. You pick three centres and they will place your child in the first available spot when that comes up. I gather that a couple of councils in Melbourne are either doing this as well or considering it. The private centres are still handling their own lists.

I registered William before birth so that gives you some idea of demand in our area.

He is starting family day care soon (which is also run by council). In our area, the waiting list for that is kept short at eight weeks. It is worth looking into further as another care option if that appeals.

[Mother Goose]

Melbel - what area do you live in?

I put Abbey's name down when I was 3 months and was told there would be no problems getting her a spot for July which is when I wanted her to start. I rang about 4 times after that for various reasons (checking about paperwork, confirming spots etc) and have got her a spot (if they back out now I will be really peeved as have paid deposit). I was told they review the younger rooms every 6 months to see who is ready to go up a room so Jan and July are the best times to start. I am booked in to an ABC centre.
I am currently trying to get work at one of Melb's major hospitals (because I want experience in a very specific area and they have the best) but it is on the other side of town and I am petrified of not being able to get Abbey into ChildCare (we will have to move closer to the hospital)...