50k only? More like 300k, counting with the TR and line training.]
Why would a PTF pilot pay for line training on revenue flights?
ANY decent career will require a period of study, university is not free and never was, someone always paid. In Australia now you pay later once earning over about $40k a year.
I will take my job as a pilot over a desk job any day.
I think you are overstating the cost of obtaining a licence and MECIR.