The Network and VARA models are designed to maximise earnings from mining contracts whilst keeping costs as low as possible. The model is built around cheap leases and labour. Sure, they could throw new aircraft out west, but margins will head south. Those who are pushing the line that new toys are coming have been brainwashed. Pull your head in and wake up.
You would be better off jumping the fence to Virgin who from what I gather is merging with mainline minus the Airbus. Whilst mainline crews have taken a haircut in recent times , certainly is more favourable in the longer run especially if one wants a left seat east coast base. Network Left seat is a dead end job.