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Don't be fooled into thinking you can just call up, put your name down and wait for the offers to roll in. It's not like queuing for a bus; daycare waiting lists are arbitrary things and if they like you, you're more likely to get a spot. "By filling in a form, you're another number," says Udy. "As soon as you know when you're going back to work, go in and say 'hello'. Take your baby so they can see how cute he is. Tell them how he sleeps a lot and hardly ever poos!"

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Know your rights
Daycare centres are legally required to give priority to those in need. If you're a single, working mum and don't have any immediate family support, you have a better chance of being offered a place than someone who doesn't rely on a full-time salary. Priority is also given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, low-income families and children in families that include a person with a disability.

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