I've come across council run long day care centres but the fees usually aren't much cheaper if at all. Haven't come across a govt funded preschool. They are mostly run by community groups. DS' was run by the uniting church. They were not for profit and the uniting church did donate money but not a lot.

I can't imagine paying $45 for a whole term! That's awesome. I paid $75 for an occasional care day which I thought was very expensive especially as I picked her up at 2:30.