Dan
I am also from the UK and have just completed my flight training at Jandakot Helicopters, Perth, Western Australia.
If you wish to do your training in Australia or any other country for that matter and then plan to work in the UK there are a few things you must consider.
In Australia 105hrs are the minimum requirement for an Australian commercial license. Although only a few manage 105hrs most 120 - 130hrs.
To convert your license to a JAA license you have 2 routes.
1. Return to the UK with 155hrs and do a 30hr flying module and re-do theory, ATPL is the prefered route in UK.
2. Return to the UK with 185hrs including 50hrsPIC 10hrs basic instrument and 5hrs night, (this may not be exact) xcntry navigation hours will be no problem as all navs in AUS especially WA are X country. You will still have to re-sit theory and do a skills test.
Budget for 185hrs.
If you need any other advice about training in Australia send me a private message.
Australian
VB's over rated the other beers are good though.