If you've never used a PAL system before, the triggering of them can be hit and miss, most people click on the transmit button too quickly. Once you are familiar with the system it works very well.
I'm not familiar with the requirements in Oz but on this side of the ditch a "night rating " requires a minimum of 5 hours of dual training, including circuits and away from the field flying. In addition to this training the student must also have had 5 hours of basic IF training.to prepare them for situations where there is no horizon. There is also a currency requirement to have made 3 take off and landings by night or have a dual check before you can exercise the night priviledges carrying passengers.