I never had a problem getting a spot immediately (no waiting) either in Melbourne or here in Woodend. Council-run ones are not-for-profit and they tend to have a better reputation but also waiting lists. That's a massive generalisation though.

In terms of rebates, best to go to a Centrelink estimator. You'll definitely get 50% off in terms of childcare rebate (in theory, I think it's income-tested but you'll get it if your/DH's salary is below $150K per year). The childcare benefit also applies and will reduce your fees, that's kind of on a sliding scale according to income.

Fees can be tricky to work out though because at our childcare centre, you pay in advance. I've never really got my head around it TBH.