I guess it seems crazy, but like anything else that you "really"want....if there is a waiting list etc you put your name down. Esp if it's a popular place & you want to secure your payment.
I wish I had put DS name down when we moved here when he was 12months, it's not likely I'll get him into 3yo kinder & I really want to. In my situation we live semi rural, with only one Kindy!! & a population of about 8,000ppl!!!! grrrrrr, it's packed. Yes I do have the option of one of the childcare centres, but he's been there for Childcare & we both hated it...so much so if he even see's the place he cries...so when not left with many options I would put them on the list as early as possible.