So its a bit of a toss-up depending on who does the interview?
Yes.........sort off. Some consulates are more relaxed than others. No problems in Melbourne, haven't heard of anyone being knocked back there.
The way I understood it is you need to get a letter from a university or the like, to say that your experience equals a degree. 3 Years experience is considered equal to 1 year of study. You pay for this letter. When I did mine a year ago they cost anywhere from US$200 to $500. That being said, I was never asked for it at my interview. Of course if I didn't have one they would have wanted it I'm sure.
I've never heard of this. Sounds like another scam to me. Not one person I know that went through the E3 process did this. It's 100% not required and doesn't say anywhere in any documentation that it's required.