Originally Posted by
triadic
Not really... the rate of climb or descent is at the pilots discretion unless otherwise stated in a clearance - if that means slowing down for a bit, I don't see the need or requirement to seek ATC approval. Some just talk too much it seems!
As I recall, in the US there is no 'chat' between aircraft in Class E and it is not encouraged by ATC.
If Oz is to have a US style class E, then the mandatory transponder requirement needs to be revoked.
You need to remember that descending in G there is no assurance that any VFR traffic that might be of interest is even on the area frequency, so what is the difference in descending in E other than being provided with separation with other IFR traffic?