For Melbourne, that rate is pretty low. You'd be getting someone with little to no experience or qualifications. If you do a web search on nanny agency, there is a major online one that is a very good option. I have been registered on it in the past and have been very happy (as a nanny, not as a parent)

At Bean Man's age though, it's quite normal to cry at separation, and even to cling to you - it's actually a really good sign that he's formed a good strong attachment with you. The issue is not how loudly he cries, but how long he cries for. Ask his carer. (if you don't feel like you can trust the carer's information, pull him out anyway)

Here's some tips on separation, if you want to give it a try at making it easier:

* If he's happy on arrival, stay with him. Play. Have fun. Don't mention that you're leaving just yet.
* If he's anxious as soon as you pull into the driveway, then make it as quick as possible, like ripping off a bandaid. If you hang around, he will wind himself up, knowing that you must be leaving soon - the longer you stay, the more upset he will get, and the harder it will be for the carer to settle him. This will leave him with memories of being upset there, and make it worse the next time. It's a hard cycle to break, so try to make it as painless as possible.
* Once you have said goodbye, and he is extracted from you, WALK. Go as fast as you can to the door. Do NOT try to settle him int he other carer's arms - it sends a very confusing message - "I have to go, but, oh wait, you're crying. I'll stay a bit." This will make him cry more, KWIM? Quick and painless.
* Only say goodbye once. Then go. Swiftly.
* When you tell him that you're going, tell him when you're coming bvack, in terms of his daily routine. Something like "after you have afternoon tea" or similar is a good option.
* Never sneak off (doesn't apply to you, I know, but for anyone else)
* When you pick him up, remind him that you always come back. Once you have done this a few times, you will be able to use it at drop-off as well, and it will be very reassuring.
* Don't try to justify to children WHY you have to go to work. Don't use lines like "Mummy has to go to work so she can buy you nice toys/take you to shows etc" That doesn't make sense to them. If you want to say something, say "Mummy has to go to work today." End of story. If you cop "Whyyyyy?" Answer in terms of what you actually DO at work, such as "Well, if I didn't go to work, there'd be nobody to answer the emails, or clean the floors, or whatever"

See how you go with that. If nannying isn't within your price range, see if you can find someone who wants to nanny-share. Or a mummy-nanny - often cheaper options.

Good luck hun! Hit me with any Qs...